Phillip Thompson (Herbert, Liberal National Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

We will have a world record attempt in Townsville on World Mental Health Day, 10 October. I was extremely honoured last week to officially launch Townsville's attempt to set a new Guinness World Record for the most people wearing high-vis vests at a single venue. The world record attempt will be held on Thursday 10 October, to celebrate the day, at Bunnings Warehouse at Fairfield Waters. The aim is to reduce stigma, promote help-seeking and make mental health more visible in North Queensland. Like I said only a few days ago, this isn't an attempt; we will break this record.

Mental health and wellbeing is a big passion of mine. As many of you know, I've fought my own battles. Part of breaking down the stigma is being able to speak out. One in five Australians are affected by mental illness, yet many don't seek help because of stigma. Mental health, mental illness and suicide prevention are not dirty words. My promise to the people of Townsville and around Australia is that I'll continue to raise awareness and speak up about mental illness and suicide prevention because there is nothing more important than life. That's why on Thursday 10 October I'll be at Bunnings Fairfield Waters to be one of more than 2,000 people wearing a high-vis vest and breaking the Guinness world record for most people wearing high-vis vests in a single venue.