R U OK? Day 2023 is upon us next Thursday, September 14, and it’s our national day of action when we remind Australians that every day is the day to ask, ‘Are you OK?’

It is the perfect time to start a meaningful conversation with anyone in your part of the world who might be struggling with life.

It’s days like this that call on all of us to let the people we care about know we’re here, to really hear them.

By taking the time for an R U OK? conversation and genuinely listening with an open mind, we can all help the people in our world feel supported and connected. That conversation can change a life.

Here in Hervey Bay, on a hyper-local level, we have our own champions of mental health, with Fraser Coast Mates.

Fraser Coast Mates was formed by a group of local community members concerned by the rise of debilitating mental health issues and rising suicide rates, especially among men, across the Fraser Coast region.

Their aim is to build awareness about mental health issues, bridge the gap between support services and give mates the tools to help their friends and colleagues when they may be struggling.

Over the past seven years, Fraser Coast Mates have raised almost half a million dollars for free local counselling services.

An awesome way that you can get involved is to grab some tickets to the upcoming Fraser Coast Mates Annual Pink Dinner, presented by Prime Agents and hosted at the Hervey Bay RSL on October 13.

This is a chance to connect with mates and raise funds for mental health awareness and support across the Fraser Coast.

The Annual Pink Dinner will feature guest speaker The Unbreakable Farmer - Warren Davies.

Warren Davies is not just any average farmer. There is more to this farmer than meets the eye. His eventful life has tested his resilience, persistence and determination; had a massive impact on his young family, relationships and finances and made Warren the Farmer he is today - The Unbreakable Farmer.

Entertainment by Killer Queen, Australia’s premiere Queen Tribute Show.

Follow the QR code or click the link to get your tickets.