A VIBRANT kite flying festival designed to raise awareness for mental health was held yesterday at Vansittart Park.
South East Junction Mental Health Activity and Resource Centre coordinator Nel Jans said the festival had major benefits for Junction participants.
“The Flying High Festival engaged Junction participants to assist in the planning of activities for the event, improving resilience, reinstating skill sets and cultivating a sense of ownership and achievement,” Ms Jans said.
“Around 100 people joined in on the event even though we had fairly poor weather, which was definitely a positive.
“The Junction looks forward to developing this into an annual festival, raising the profile of Mount Gambier and mental health awareness well into the future.”
Member for Barker Tony Pasin said a range of kite making workshops run by The Junction were held at the festival to help address the stigma attached to mental health.
“The theme of the day was ‘what keeps you healthy and happy’ and these fun and educational workshops were held for small groups from schools and local organisations,” Mr Pasin said.
“This event was a great way to get the community together, promote mental wellbeing and improve the leadership capacity of The Junction’s volunteers.”
