Skate for mental health

• Jayden Wihongi, 12, of Bridport gets some air behind his brother Maui, 10, and Max Partridge with Youth Development Officer Charlotte Jory in readiness for next Wednesday's special Mental Health Week event planned for the Bridport Skate Park.

October 4, 2023

Youth will be the focus of a fun Mental Health Week event at Bridport Skate Park next Wednesday, October 11.

A workshop will be facilitated by Drop in Skate School for children aged 12-18 to learn to skate or refine their skills. 

Dorset House Youth Development Officer Charlotte Jory said participants will also learn to develop a better understanding of mental health and the importance of taking care of themselves.  

“One of the magical things about learning to skate is that the part of the brain you use is the same part you use when recovering from trauma, to learn the skill of skate, one needs stamina, resilience, and perseverance, which can cross over to mental health,” Ms Jory said.

“The event's highlight is going to be watching the young people develop valuable life skills and support each other as the day progresses and hopefully within their journeys beyond the day towards better mental health. 

“They will learn how to support and encourage each other building a sense of community and peer support that will hopefully continue to benefit their lives past this event.

“We are proud to have collaborated with Drop In Skate School, Royal Flying Doctors Service, Health Consumers Tas, Dorset Suicide Prevention Network, and other wonderful service providers in the youth mental health space … it’s a testament to the importance of collaboration and community partnerships in supporting young people’s mental health and wellbeing.” 

The event will run from 11am to 3pm and participants must bring a helmet to take part.

A BBQ lunch and skateboards are provided, but participants can bring scooters or roller blades.

A bus run will pick up at Gladstone Town Hall, Pioneer Town Hall, Winnaleah Town Hall, and Branxholm Town Hall - bookings are essential by emailing charlotte@dorsethouse.org.au or calling 0474 100 219. 

Permission forms must be signed by a parent or guardian.