headspace Malvern (which opened in late March this year) celebrated its opening with a launch party with food, music and art activities on Wednesday 22 June 2022.
Over 70 people attended the party which kicked off with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony performed by Uncle Colin Hunter Jr, followed by speeches from special guests from headspace National, Access Health and Community, South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network, Federal Parliament Member for Higgins, headspace Youth Advisory Group and the City of Stonnington.
City of Stonnington Mayor, Cr Jami Klisaris said it was great to celebrate the opening of headspace Malvern with a party acknowledging the collaboration between Council, headspace and Access Health and Community to bring this important resource to the community.
For young people, mental illness is a risk factor for not completing school and may lead to more serious mental and health problems as they get older that impact on their families and others.
"Access to a welcoming and confidential environment at headspace Malvern will make it easier for young people in Stonnington to seek support and ease the stigma that surrounds mental health," said Cr Klisaris.
"Providing early intervention at headspace Malvern will help to reduce the serious symptoms of mental illness and improve quality of life in our community.
"This is an outstanding resource for people aged 12-25, where young people can access free and confidential mental health support, health advice, and general information," said Cr Klisaris.
Pictured: Back row L to R: James Rouse (Acting Director, Community and Wellbeing, City of Stonnington), Sophie (headspace Malvern Youth Advisory Group), Jane Seeber (COO, Access, Health and Community), Jason Trethowan (CEO, headspace National), Quinn Pawson (CEO, South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network), Dr Michelle Ananda-Rajah (Member for Higgins).
Front row L to R: Ria, Claire and Kate (headspace Malvern Youth Advisory Group).
