Not for the first time this year, the weather tried and failed to spoil a lively event put on by Headspace’s Tamworth branch.
Under skies that had finally run out of wind and rain, Fitzroy Street turned a vivid green today as the ‘green markets’ filled the city center with a festival-like buzz.
The event, themed “Pause, Reflect, Reconnect,” aimed to provide a relaxing space for families and individuals to unwind with live music, food, entertainment and stalls.
Community Engagement Officer Jess Downey highlighted that the event’s purpose is to encourage the community to focus on mental health and well-being by creating opportunities for people to relax and enjoy themselves,
“It’s about taking time to just spend with your family and chill out, let stress go,” said Downey.
This year marked the second consecutive Green Market, following the success of the inaugural event last year. Despite some cancellations due to the rain, the event continued with strong support from local volunteers, namely the youth reference group.
The group, made up of young people aged 16 to 25, played a crucial role in organising and managing the market, gaining valuable experience in project and event management.
Downey explained the significance of the youth reference group’s involvement, noting how the group helps Headspace stay connected with the issues facing young people in the community.
The group members, many of whom have been Headspace clients, gain practical skills and the chance to build friendships while giving back to their community.
“Even in the rain, they were problem-solving and thinking on their feet. It’s a fantastic experience for them,” Downey said, adding that the initiative not only builds the participants’ confidence but also helps them develop resumes that stand out.
Alana Williams joined the group 14 months ago, just before the inaugural Green Market, and is currently studying psychology.
“I like giving back to young people and making sure they know there’s a safe space to go to,” said Williams.
She emphasised the pressing need for accessible mental health services, especially in light of the current cost of living crisis.
“With services often being costly, not everyone can afford that kind of help. Headspace offers low-cost or free services, which is great for young people right now.”
Williams has witnessed the growth and evolution of Tamworth’s Headspace’s facilities, which now occupies a larger shared space with CentreCare on Marius Street following humble beginnings eleven years ago.
This expanded facility allows for a broader range of services, including vocational support, mental health care, and sexual health education for young people.
Reflecting on the success of last year’s event, Williams noted the group’s consensus to make the Green Market an annual tradition.
“We wanted to make it a statement event every year so that people know it’s us and know that it’s going ahead,” she said.
Josie Hofman, Executive Leader of Clinical Programs for Centacare New England North West, emphasised the critical role of Headspace in providing accessible mental health services throughout the region.
“Having services free, especially for young people, is so vital,” Hofman stated, stressing the importance of removing financial barriers to mental health care.
Hofman highlighted the uniqueness of Headspace, describing it as a “one-stop shop” that caters to various needs within the community. She says many outreach efforts extends to local schools, reinforcing the organisation’s commitment to raising awareness and ensuring that young people know where to seek help.
Reflecting on the event itself, Hofman says it held special significance as it coincided with National Headspace Day, a day dedicated to promoting mental health awareness and the services available through Headspace across Australia.
“This is a great opportunity to talk about what Headspace is and why we exist.”
Hofman says in the world of mental health resources, Headspace’s model has a point of difference: the immediacy of being able to get affordable help face to face:
“There is something so valuable about having that physical presence. We’re here, so go and tell people!”
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