Mary O’Brien works to highlight mental health issues in men living in rural and remote areas of Australia. She has developed the ‘Are you bogged, mate?’ initiative specifically for men who work in the rural sector – with the aim of reducing suicide rates among this group.

District 9560 first ever Annual Conference will be held in Mackay this year from April 30 to May 2. Registration costs $185 which includes Conference attendance, lunches and morning/afternoon tea, Cocktail party and Gala dinner.

I cannot stress the importance of booking your accommodation immediately because it is a very busy weekend in Mackay. 

Don’t be disappointed. Register now at 2022 Conference - Rotary 9560 and book your accommodation.

The Conference theme is “One team – One goal”. As previously explained our keynote speaker is Rachael Robertson who successfully led a year long expedition to Antarctica.

We have many quality speakers attending and this edition I am profiling, Mary O’Brien.

Mary O’Brien is a passionate advocate for agriculture. Being raised on the land, she understands the diverse challenges faced by the rural sector. Mary works to highlight mental health issues in men living in rural and remote areas of Australia. She has developed the ‘Are you bogged, mate?’ initiative specifically for men with the aim of reducing suicide rates among this group.

Mary has tailored her approach specifically to the mental health needs of men who grapple with isolation, the stress of running a farm and the emotional toll of dealing with drought, bushfires, failed crops and lack of water.

Mary’s initiative helps men to recognise that support is available, encourages them to reach out, and promotes conversations around mental health – which may not otherwise be openly acknowledged or discussed. Her work has also been recognised with the Queensland 2020 Men's Health Award and a national Women Working In Men’s Health Award.

The organising committee are very mindful of your concerns about corona virus and will be strictly following Federal and State guidelines. The Council owned MECC must adhere to all Government regulations and being a large facility will be able to accommodate our Conference even under harsh regulations/restrictions. Attendees will have to be double vaccinated and wear a mask. Alternate conference delivery options are being investigated and will be provided when known.

The recommended dress code is smart casual for the Cocktail party on Saturday evening and after/ 5 jacket and tie for the DG’s Dinner on Sunday evening.

There will be more information forthcoming in the next District Newsletter. If you have questions please email me - rossandwendywalker@gmail.com

Ross Walker. District 9560 Conference Chairman.