Kara Cook (Bonner, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

On World Mental Health Day, I had the pleasure of joining the Wynnum Manly and Districts Men's Shed to celebrate 33 years of the Men's Shed movement across Australia. The Shedder's Big BBQ Breakfast and expo brought our community together over coffee, breakfast and good conversation—a simple but powerful reminder that connection underpins our wellbeing. The event showcased the strength of local partnerships with many community organisations in attendance including the Cancer Council Queensland, Jeff Horn and Bullyproof Australia, Repair Cafe Bayside, It's a Bloke Thing, the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia, OzFish and Circle of Men. Each plays an important role in promoting health, resilience and belonging within our communities. The Men's Shed movement has long stood as a beacon for men's mental health, a place where men can connect, share skills and support one another.

Recently, I also met with the team at TIACS, who are doing incredible work in Brisbane, providing free mental health support for tradies, truckies and blue-collar workers—over 11,000 supports each and every year. Their iconic 'This is a Conversation Starter' shirt has become a symbol of openness and connection, reminding us that starting a simple chat can change and, most certainly, save a life. On World Mental Health Day, it is important that we are reminded of these important community organisations and supports in our local community, and I thank them for all that they do.