“Empower Minds, Break the Silence, and become a part of change”.
Welcome, dear readers, to this special edition of our magazine, where we delve into topics that touch the very core of our communities and individual lives. This month, as we observe Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we take the opportunity to explore a range of interconnected issues that deeply affect millions of people worldwide.
Domestic violence is a pervasive issue that knows no boundaries. It affects individuals regardless of age, race, gender, or economic status. This year’s theme is to take positive action to build a safer Queensland.
Mental health also remains a topic of paramount importance, and this month, we take a closer look at bipolar disorder. This condition affects millions and can be challenging to navigate without understanding and support.
We also address Men's health which is often overshadowed by societal norms, yet it is crucial for the well-being of families and communities. From physical health to mental wellness, we discuss the unique challenges men face and offer guidance on how to overcome them. Let’s encourage men to prioritize their health and seek help when needed.
Lastly, we emphasize the significance of raising awareness about child grooming which is crucial in protecting children from manipulative tactics used by predators to gain their trust and exploit them. By educating both children and adults on the signs and risks of grooming, we empower communities to safeguard vulnerable individuals and prevent potential abuse.
Each article in our magazine is crafted with care and intention, aiming to educate and motivate action. Whether you are here to learn, to share, or to find solace in shared experiences, know that you are part of a community that values growth, healing, and collective well-being.
As we navigate the complexities of these and other critical issues, let us remember the power of empathy and the impact of understanding. By embracing these values, we can create ripples of positive change that extend far beyond our individual lives. Your engagement is key in this mission, and we are grateful for your support.
Together, let us continue to build a future where awareness leads to action, and action leads to a brighter, more compassionate world for all.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Let's make a difference, one page at a time.
Let’s make a difference.
Sandra Holebrook
STALKING IS A CRIME
Stalking is behaviour through which someone imposes themselves into another person’s life in a way which causes distress, fear, and disruption.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics:
An estimated 2 7 million people aged 18 years and over (14%) have experienced stalking since the age of 15.
. About 2 million of these people are women accounting for 20 per cent, or one in five
. Women are stalked three times more often than men
Stalking perpetrators can be anyone, including members of your family, neighbours, acquaintances, work colleagues, or even complete strangers.
Many well known serious crimes have occurred because of escalating behaviour by stalkers.
Source: Personal Safety, Australia, 2021-22 financial year | Australian Bureau of Statistics (abs.gov.au)
QLD Victim Assist: 1300 546 587
TYPE OF STALKERS
Domestic: stalking a former spouse. This is probably the most common type of stalking where a relationship has broken down b/w intimate partners & one of the partners can’t accept the breakdown of the relationship. These relationships have often lasted years & where they’ve had children together.
Revenge: angry former employee, business partner whose motive is payback, also can include Domestic & Rejected Stalkers These stalkers feel harmed or slighted by their victim in some way. They are often seeking revenge and to punish the person.
Lust or Predatory: serial predators who stalk victim after victim. Serial rapists & murderers may begin as lust stalkers. Often delusional This is the smallest group, but most frequently reported in the media, where a stranger will stalk a person seeking to sexually assault them.
Rejected or Love Scorned: often applies to an acquaintance, co-worker, neighbour, someone you are dating etc who desires an intimate relationship but is eventually rebuffed
DFV MONTH
THE THEME FOR 2025 IS: TAKE POSITIVE ACTION TODAY TO BUILD A SAFER QUEENSLAND
DFV Prevention Month is an annual event held each May to raise community awareness of the social and personal impacts of domestic and family violence and the support available to those affected.
Promote a clear message of no tolerance of domestic and family violence in Queensland communities; ensure those who are experiencing domestic and family violence know how to access help and support; encourage people who use abuse and/or violence to take responsibility for their abusive behaviour and seek support to change.
Help and support is available
If you’re worried about your safety in a relationship, help and support are available.
Learn more about the progress we are making The Queensland Government is committed to addressing all forms of domestic and family violence, including coercive control, and eradicating these forms of violence from our communities
Register an event for DFV Prevention Month: Show your support for DFV Prevention Month by hosting an event and registering the details on the Women’s Safety and Violence Prevention community events calendar.
Find a DFV Prevention Month event near you During the month, we encourage all Queenslanders to get involved by attending community events and activities to raise awareness and increase visibility of domestic and family violence and coercive control
“WHY
DOESN’T SHE JUST… LEAVE?”
There are many reasons why women stay in a relationship where they are being abused. The 9 Fs are:
Fear
Women may fear for their safety, the safety of their children, or the safety of other family members. Women may worry about what the person who abuses them will do if they try to leave or seek help; they fear retaliation.
FRIENDS FATIGUE FINANCES
The person using violence against them often uses isolation as a tactic to control their partner, cutting them off from their friends and support networks.
It can feel like a matter of survival every day for women. The person using abuse may use the woman’s exhaustion as a tactic to maintain control over her and to wear her down.
They may limit the woman’s access to money or force the woman to hand over their earnings. This can leave the woman feeling financially dependent and unable to leave the relationship.
faith
Religious beliefs may teach women to value the sanctity of marriage and they may feel obligated to remain in the relationship to uphold religious values or beliefs.
fantasy
It is not uncommon for women to stay in a relationship where they are being abused due to a fantasy or unrealistic belief that the person using violence will change, and the relationship will improve and become loving and healthy.
FAMILY feelings forgiveness
They may fear being ostracised by their family or community, or worry that their children will be negatively impacted by the separation.
Women may have feelings of love, attachment, and loyalty towards the person despite them using abuse against them. They may feel guilty or responsible for the abuse.
Women may feel like they need to forgive their partner in order to move forward in the relationship or to maintain a sense of peace.
THE PURPLE BOOK:
The Purple Book contains general information that may assist you to make some decisions about your situation.
what is bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a chronic (ongoing) mood disorder. It involves mood changes that disrupt everyday life — from extreme highs (mania or hypomania episodes) to extreme lows (depressive episodes).
If you have bipolar disorder, what you experience during each episode (and for how long) can vary. An episode can last for weeks or even months. Your moods may not make sense in the context of what else is going on in your life. Around 1 in 50 Australians has bipolar disorder Bipolar disorder often develops for the first time during teenage years or early adulthood.
DAVID’S
SYMPTOMS
A person with bipolar disorder goes through mood changes that range between manic and depressive episodes. During a manic phase, symptoms can include:
feeling euphoric and very happy or irritable
inflated self-esteem
increased energy
reduced need to sleep racing thoughts and speech being very easily distracted impulsive or risky behaviours unrealistic plans, delusions
David lives with bipolar 1 disorder and has been a presenter with the Black Dog Institute for almost a decade. He delivers a range of talks to workplaces, including ‘Mental health is everybody’s business’. He had a successful career in the advertising industry for more than 30 years and now focuses solely on his work as a mental health speaker and trainer.
“I wasn’t diagnosed with bipolar 1 until I was 48 years old I’m 65 now So the vast majority of my life and career was spent undiagnosed and untreated.
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call triple zero (000). You can also call Lifeline on 13 11 14 to talk to someone 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
MEN´S HEALTH
Fun and relatable mantras can be a great tool for boosting men's mental health.
These mantras can be used in daily life and during moments of stress to promote positive thinking and selfcompassion.
Self-Care and Acceptance:
"I'm a cool dude, and I'm okay."
"This too shall pass "
"I'm strong and resilient."
"I'm enough, just as I am."
"I'm worthy of happiness and love."
"I'm learning to be kinder to myself."
"I'm taking care of my body and mind, because I deserve it."
"I'm allowing myself to feel and process my emotions."
Stress and Anxiety:
"I'm breathing in calm, and I'm breathing out worry."
"I'm choosing to focus on what I can control."
"I'm going to take one step at a time."
"I'm grateful for what I have."
Motivation and Goal Setting:
"I'm capable of achieving my goals."
"I'm committed to living a life of purpose."
"I'm going to embrace new challenges."
"I'm learning and growing every day "
"I'm creating the life I want to live."
Personalize your mantras and epeat them regurlarly : Choose words and phrases that resonate with you and your values.
. Suicide Call Back Service –Free 24/7 telephone counselling. Delivered by trained counsellors at Lifeline. Call 1300 659 467.
. Beyond Blue – To speak to a counsellor, call 1300 22 4636. To chat online with a counsellor, start a webchat. Both services are private, free, and available 24/7
WHY YOU NEED A WILL
Death is a touchy topic that most of us don’t like to think about, let alone our own death. However, it’s something none of us can avoid.
The reason for having a Will is certainty. Certainty about who oversees the winding up your affairs and paying your debts. Certainty about who will inherit your assets. Certainty about who will care for your children.
The death of a loved one is a deeply emotional time for family and friends. Without a Will that details your wishes and directions, these people can be largely left in the dark. They’ll be facing large decisions, often based on what they think you would have wanted Emotions can run high and disagreements can often arise.
Your Will is a legal document setting out how your assets will be distributed when you pass away.
It can also cover things like:
. who will benefit from your estate
. who gets personal or family items or other property you might have
. what happens to things like life insurances or other investments sharing any wishes for your funeral
. picking someone to administer your Will (called the executor)
There are 3 main ways to prepare a Will:
Through a qualified legal professional such as a solicitor or lawyer.
A trustee organisation such as Queensland Public Trustee. They provide a free Will-making service to Queenslanders over the age of 18
Self-made Wills. You can purchase a Will kit from a newsagent, some Post Office locations, or download one from the internet.
Other options are: enduring power of attorney, advance health directives, statutory health attorney
. naming who will look after your pets.
You should review your will every 3 to 5 years to ensure it still reflects your wishes.
TOXIC MASCULINITY
The message is still hitting home every single day. - The Unbreakable Farmer
I wrote this blog a year ago, and since then, not a day has gone by without someone reading it. The constant hits day in, day out tell me one thing loud and clear, this conversation matters. It was written from a place and feeling of concern. As a husband, father, grandfather, and father inlaw to seven amazing women, I’d had enough of staying quiet. But the truth is, this blog isn’t just about them, it’s also about us, as men
bout being real About being strong soft when it counts. Brave enough to be ling enough to change.
people are still reading this every single we’re hungry for a different kind of e that lifts everyone up, not just men. If st time reading this blog, or if you’re n, thank you.
conversation going
DADS & SONS
We know boys whose fathers are involved with them from a young age do better in lots of ways.
Boys learn a lot about being a man by watching and listening to their Dads from a young age. When they watch their father interact with their mother, they learn about respect in relationships and how to deal with conflict. When they watch their father interact with other men, they learn how men relate to each other and how they deal with problems. So Dads, you are very influential in teaching your sons to be good men.
GET INVOLVED GET INVOLVED
Good relationships are about Dads being around and involved It is best to start early, rather than waiting until he is ‘old enough to do things with’ to start relating to your son. If it helps to make it happen, schedule time to be together and be strict with it. When he becomes a teenager and more independent, you may need to seek new ways to stay connected
PLAY WITH YOUR SON PLAY WITH YOUR SON
Boys love rough and tumble games, so use these for enjoyment. A side benefit is that rough and tumble play teaches a boy selfcontrol - knowing when to back off. Play fighting can be a great way for you both to let off steam But set some rules first, like no elbowing and no punching. Remember to give yourselves some time to calm down before moving on to the next activity.
TEACH HIM SKILLS TEACH HIM SKILLS GO EASY ON YOUR SON GO EASY ON YOUR SON
Boys love to learn from their Dads. If you’re skilled as a handyman, work on a project together - perhaps you could make that go-cart or build a model plane or ship. If you don’t know how, this could be the time to learn together. Do the things together you enjoyed doing when you were a kid, or wish you had done. You’ll create some great memories to look back on!
Many Dads are tough on their boy and pressure him to be someone he’s not, or push him beyond his abilities. Don’t be tempted to turn games into lessons and give advice when he just wants to be understood. Most of all, your son wants your approval and acceptance.
CATFISHING
Catfishing is when someone sets up a fake online identity and uses it to trick and control others. Often they do it to scam people out of money, blackmail them or harm them in some other way.
Catfishing is a cruel and embarrassing trick, but there are some things you can do to prevent it or stop the harm getting worse:
Look out for people who seem ‘too good to be true’ and other warning signs – like their online profile doesn’t really match the way they chat or act, they have a low friend count on social media or they want to get sexual very quickly.
If someone has catfished you and then shared or threatened to share your nudes, eSafety can get the images or videos removed and help stop the threats.
Being blackmailed over your nudes is called ‘sextortion’ – do not pay the blackmailer or give them more money or intimate content. You can report them and get help.
CATFISHING USUALLY HAPPENS IN SEVERAL STEPS:
They may pretend to be someone who’s really good looking or famous, like a celebrity or sports star, so you feel excited and flattered when they show interest in you. Or they could pretend to be an ordinary person and claim they like all the same things as you, so you think they’re your ‘perfect match’.
Usually they give an excuse for not showing themselves in a video chat. They may flatter you by giving you lots of compliments, affection and maybe even gifts.
When you trust them, they ask you for something. They may want you to: share personally identifiable information, do them a favour, give them money or cryptocurrency, buy them gift cards, send them an intimate image or video, such as a nude get sexual in a video chat, even though you can’t see them on camera.
HAPPINESS AND HEALTH: 7 BENEFITS OF HAPPINESS ON YOUR WELLBEING
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HOW TO BE HAPPY AGAIN
Happiness is an integral part of our emotional and mental wellbeing, and often shifts in response to life's changes. It's not unusual for events, whether big or small, to temporarily cloud the joy we once felt easily.
The good news is that finding happiness again is possible. You just need a few practical steps to help you learn what brings personal joy and contentment in your current phase of life.
WHAT
IT MEANS TO FIND HAPPINESS IN YOUR OWN LIFE
Happiness is usually made up of a complex blend of emotions and experiences that bring a lasting sense of inner fulfillment and contentment, and this blend varies from person to person. While some people find joy in solitary activities like reading or gardening, others might find it in social interactions or physical activities.
Finding happiness is a gradual process that requires patience, self-exploration, and an openness to change and growth.
As you grow and evolve, so do the things that bring you happiness Embrace this dynamic nature as part of the journey, and remember that feeling happy doesn't mean you won't experience sadness, anger, or stress. Happiness involves learning how to balance these emotions and finding joy in the midst of life's ups and downs. This journey back to happiness isn't just about recapturing moments of laughter or pleasure—it's a deeper quest for a fulfilling state of being
Start by writing down things that bring you joy, like favorite hobbies, cherished memories, beloved people, or peaceful places Your happiness list can evolve with you over time, so be open to discovering new sources of happiness as life unfolds.
WHY DON’T CHILDREN TELL
Children are manipulated into secrecy. The child will feel unable to tell.
The offender may tell the child that if they tell, something terrible will happen. Through manipulation, the offender will make the child feel like they allowed the abuse to happen, particularly if the child enjoyed the attention that come with the grooming.
Children will end up feeling “dirty” and very ashamed, and will blame themselves for the sexual abuse. Statements that may be used to manipulate the child:
You are so special. We have fun together, don’t we? I won’t hurt you. This is our special secret – no one else can share it. It’s normal; it is part of growing up and being loved If you love me, you will do this for me. Think of all the things I do for you. If you tell your mum she will get really ill and she may not get better. If you tell, I will get rid of the kitten I bought you last week. Who would believe you, you are just a little girl, you’re always making up stories.
No one else cares where you are or what you do. I love you, if you tell on me you have no-one at all.
No one else understands our love.
If you have any concerns, no matter how small, it is helpful to trust your instinct and reach out for some guidance. If you have noticed any behavioural changes in children, or the adults around them, it can be helpful to explore why these changes may be happening.
If a child does disclose abuse, it is important to remain calm and tell them that you believe them. It is very difficult for children to disclose abuse, and so if they do it is important they feel safe and fully supported.
Give them the opportunity to share what has happened in their own words, and at their own pace. Remind them that this is not their fault.
Bravehearts has further information to help support you when responding to disclosures of child abuse.
MEN ARE DYING TOO YOUNG
Men in Australia die 5 years younger than women on average.
In 2023, worldwide, the median age of death
The gap for people born in Australia is larger Men born in Australia are dying 6 years younger than women on average die by suicide Men Men Women Women die from avoidable causes / /
5O men a day
Every day, 50 Australian men and boys die from preventable causes before the age of 75.
Suicide is the leading killer of men under 65
28,509 people
In 2022, a total of under 75 died from potentially avoidable causes, comprising
18,080
9 people a day males females /
10,429
Reducing the number of preventable deaths in men to the same number as women would save the lives of more than 7,500 men and boys a year.
3,214 people
7 males and 2 females on average, with men and boys accounting for 3 in 4 suicides. In 2023, a total of died by suicide, 2,419 males and 795 females.
Suicide is now the leading cause of death in men under 65 in Australia.
THE LOUNGE
A place to belong
In August 2022 we located a space to further develop the support being offered through StreetWorks, and 'The 'Lounge' was birthed.
The Lounge is opened at various times throughout the week with a community meal held each Monday evening. The Lounge provides a quiet space off the streets and away from the boarding rooms where people can come and relax for a friendly chat, grab some hygiene supplies, food items, a swag or warm bedding, or enjoy a quiet game of cards or a cuppa with friends in a safe environment
If Kindness Works is like a family, The Lounge is like our living room, where everyone comes together.
Call. (07) 4124 7200 Email. admin@kindnessworks com au Address. 20 Nikenbah-Dundowran Road, Nikenbah QLD 4655
MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID COURSE
- HERVEY BAY: JUNE 2025
Provide mental health support in your workplace
Course Details 26-27 June 2025
. 9:00am to 4:00pm
. Two days, face-to-face
. Venue: Hervey Bay Boat Club, Buccaneer Drive, Urangan
The Mental Health First Aid® (Standard) twoday course teaches people (18 years and over) how to offer initial support to other adults who are developing a mental health problem, experiencing a worsening of an existing mental health problem or are in a mental health crisis until appropriate professional help is received or the crisis resolves.
Building a psychologically safe workplace starts from a foundation of empathy. It’s about leading with care, compassion and curiosity. And for those organisations prioritising staff mental health, the bottom line has never looked better.
EARLY CHILDH APPROACH
BUSHkids works with children younger than 6 with developmental delays or children younger than 9 with disability access the supports and services they and their families need to achieve better long-term outcomes.
The early childhood approach program is fully funded by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) the federal agency responsible for delivering the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) so like all BUSHkids services it’s free of charge.
Join the Hervey Bay Local Peer Support Group hosted by the Queenslanders with Disability Network (QDN), the executive peak body for people with disabilities in Queensland, particularly in the Hervey Bay region. The group offers a unique space for mutual support, empowerment, and advocacy.
Meeting Details:
Date: Third Wednesday of each Month
Time: 10:00am - 12:00pm
Location: Urangan Community
Wellness Centre (Tree house), Corner Elizabeth and Miller Street, Urangan, QLD 4655
JOINTODAY JOINTODAY
Group Convenor, Barbara, hosts monthly meetings in Hervey Bay, providing a welcoming environment where members can connect, share experiences, and discuss matters impacting their lives
Note: Some light snacks and beverages will be provided. No RSVP needed. For questions or special accommodations, contact us at 07 3252 8566 / 1300 363 783 or email peersupport@qdn.org.au.
Prostate Awareness Cancer
18 OF MAY, 8:30AM HERVEY BAY AIRPORT BP
BY HISTORICAL MOTORCYCLE CLUB FRASER COAST
Wear your suit jacket and tie to show how distinguished you are and help us promote awareness for PROSTATE CANCER. We ride as a group along Booral Rd, The Esplarade lo Gatakers Boat Ramp, Pt. Vernon, before retuming along The Esplanade to finish al Seafront Oval carpark, Pialba.
The ride is FREE but donations gratefully accepted with all riders welcome to the sausage sizzle and coffee at the conclusion of the ride where awards will be handed out for various categories. So polish up your machines and get your dapper clobber out and let's raise awareness for men's health.
All monies raised will be donated directly to the Maryborough & Hervey Bay Prostate Cancer Support Groups, so put your hands in your pocket and support these very worthy community organisations.
The ride will be postponed in the event of bad weather. Contact Lee (0428 436 804) or Des (0427 061 981)
DOMESTIC AND FAMILY VIOLENCE PREVENTION MONTH 2025
We are calling on our community to show support by going purple to raise awareness for Domestic and Family Violence. The colour purple symbolises peace, courage, survival, honour, and dedication to ending violence. By wearing purple or displaying it in your business or service, you honour the lives lost, support those who remain, and stand with those currently experiencing Domestic and Family Violence Together, we can raise awareness and spark change. Let’s speak up and be the voice that breaks the silence.
DadLAN
Are you a dad who loves technology, playing games and eating pizza and pasta?
DadLAN runs every month in the Hervey Bay Community Centre to bring dads with an interest in technology together. Our mission is to fight loneliness, improve mental health outcomes and provide a dependable social space where we chat, play computer games and eat some free food!
Being a dad can be incredibly rewarding, but at times it can also be socially isolating, DadLAN provides a space for you to have some fun while meeting and talking to other fathers in our local area!
�� DadLAN has been running now in the Bay for over 12 months. We meet once a month in person and also have a great online presence in discord with over 3000 members Australia wide!
THE NEXT EVENT!
�� Date: Sunday, 18th of May 2025
⏲ Time: 1-5pm
�� Location: Hervey Bay Community Centre 22 Charles St
�� Price: FREE (though please book tickets to help us to track numbers and plan ahead)
�� Loan laptops: Don't have a computer? Don't fret! We have a large number of laptops all set up that we can lend you on the day! Just indicate you need one when grabbing your free ticket!
�� Games: There are many games to choose from on the day! Think Quake, Doom, Battlefield, Red alert etc!
What's the catch?: There is none! We are funded through community BBQs, you might see us at Bunnings occasionally too! Also come say hi in our discord, which you can find on our front page.
