Community members from across the Scenic Rim region gathered to celebrate health, wellbeing, and social connection at the annual Fassifern Health & Wellness Expo.
The vibrant community event, held at Carinity Fassifern Community Centre, is designed to promote mental health awareness and connect residents with local support services.
Held in recognition of Queensland Mental Health Week, the free expo welcomed well over 120 attendees who explored a diverse range of health, disability, family support, counselling, and wellbeing services available throughout the Fassifern district.
The event provided a valuable opportunity for community members to meet face-to-face with local and outreach service providers, learn about available supports, and access information to help strengthen their overall health and wellbeing.
Carinity Fassifern Community Development Coordinator, Rhys Wilson, said the expo's core mission is "to improve mental health awareness, build community resilience, and increase accessibility to allied health and support services".
"Stallholders representing a broad range of organisations shared resources, information, and practical support, while attendees enjoyed a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere focused on connection and community care," Rhys said.
Throughout the day, visitors participated in interactive workshops, explored community information stalls, and enjoyed a range of activities designed to support personal wellbeing. self-care and resilience.
Attendees also embraced the children's activities, art stations, and cultural experiences, including a community yarning circle.
Guests were treated to complimentary morning refreshments, popcorn and a community barbeque lunch, creating further opportunities for social connection and meaningful conversation.
"A highlight of the day was the strong sense of collaboration demonstrated by local organisations, volunteers, and sponsors who helped bring the event to life," Rhys said.
Rhys and Carinity extended sincere appreciation to the Fassifern Suicide Prevention Network for its generous financial contribution towards the delivery of the expo, and to Moonfarm Golf Day, whose donation of food supplies ensured the free barbeque could be enjoyed by all attendees.
The event also featured a community raffle, with all proceeds directed back to the Fassifern Suicide Prevention Network. Funds raised will support ongoing initiatives aimed at increasing awareness of suicide prevention, encouraging mental health check-ins, and fostering conversations that help reduce stigma surrounding mental illness.
"The strength of our community comes from people supporting one another," Rhys said.
"The Carinity Fassifern Community Centre and expos like this continue to provide a welcoming space where individuals, families, service providers and community groups can come together, connect, and promote positive mental health outcomes for everyone."
