This Thursday 8 September is R U OK? Day, and to mark it, the suicide prevention organisation R U OK? is inviting South Australians to post a postcard and reconnect with someone they’ve lost touch with at this year’s Royal Adelaide Show.
R U OK? is partnering with the Royal Adelaide Show and local mental health organisations to help inspire more people to start a conversation and access expert support when needed.
The team will have its temporary giant yellow post box in the Jubilee Pavilion until Sunday 11 September, and visitors are invited to stop by and write a message to a loved one or long-lost mate on R U OK? postcards designed by Australian secondary students.
Show visitors will also be able to meet R U OK? Ambassador, Olympian and Hockeyroo goal keeper Rachael Lynch on R U OK? Day, who’ll be championing the power of conversations with support from volunteers.
R U OK? CEO Brendan Maher says the event is a wonderful opportunity to remind over half a million visitors they’ve got what it takes to start a conversation. “By encouraging people to reconnect with the people who matter to them, we hope to rekindle many important relationships,” he said. “We want to encourage people to build stronger relationships because they’re so important to our wellbeing and our ability to recognise that someone might need a bit of support.”
People who donate at the show gates will be given an R U OK? tea bag to prompt them to have a cuppa and a conversation with someone they know. Conversation cards will also be distributed to help people start a conversation with someone they’re worried about.
Inaugural Ride Against Suicide kicks off on R U OK? Day
But wait, there’s more! On Thursday 8 September, push bike riders and motorcyclists will commence a suicide awareness ride, which will culminate in a parade on the Main Arena at the Royal Adelaide Show at 3.15pm.
Chief Executive Officer of the Royal Adelaide Show, John Rothwell, said Ride Against Suicide participants and show attendees will be encouraged to get behind R U OK? Day.
“I am delighted the Royal Adelaide Show will be a platform for raising awareness around suicide,” John said. “We’re asking all patrons to wear yellow on Thursday 8 September in support of suicide prevention and assist by donating to our charity gate collectors on the day.”
“Whether you’re on a motorbike or riding your pushy, we encourage you to gather your mates and join in helping us and our partner organisations to raise awareness around mental health,” Brendan said. “Help us make a difference by asking the people in your corner of the world if they’re ok.
“It’s a simple but powerful question and it can change a life.”
Organisations that are partnering with the ride include R U OK?, Silent Ripples, Mental Illness Fellowship South Australia, the Longriders Christian Motorcycle Club and the RSL South Australia.
For support at any time of day or night, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. For more info, visit ruok.org.au.
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