Helen Haines (Indi, Independent) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Imagine, if you will, a giant circus tent at the Wangaratta Rodeo grounds, 1,700 people gathered, local food trucks and hours of fantastic rock music, hit after hit, across genres. It sounds awesome, doesn't it? Well, I'm here to report that Project 365's Ripple Effect event in Wangaratta last weekend was absolutely rollicking. It was a fabulous event.

But it wasn't just a concert. There was an important message and purpose. Project 365 promotes positive mental health. They encourage us to talk about the elephant in the room, a message that many people across rural and regional Australia can relate to. The crowd was buzzing, and I was so proud to be there. Everyone was connecting and sharing a strong sense of community and a story or two. The U Can Cry band played songs and shared messages about facing adversity and mental ill health and where to find support.

The message from Project 365 is particularly important at this time of year. The Christmas period can be a particularly tough time for many people. But no-one needs to struggle alone. Check in with family, friends, neighbours and colleagues. Have a yarn and ask them how they're doing. If you need support, reach out to Beyond Blue or headspace or speak to someone you know and trust.

Thank you to Peter Rourke, Cynthia Andrews and the Project 365 team for bringing us together to talk about mental health. I wish you all a safe and happy Christmas.