Safe work and wellbeing highlighted with guest speaker

The sessions, covering Cr Bella’s time in the public eye and behind the scenes playing professional football as well as struggles since, highlighted the importance of everyone taking time for their own mental wellbeing and being prepared if someone they knew was struggling.

Burdekin Shire Council Director Corporate and Community Services, Nick O’Connor, said while Queensland Mental Health Week was an important annual reminder, it was important for everyone in the community to be empowered to have conversations with loved ones any time of the year.

“It has been fantastic to welcome Cr Bella to the Burdekin for a day of presentations to Council’s indoor and outdoor staff about his own life experiences and lessons he’s taken away from them. They are lessons which have resonated with us all and I cannot thank Cr Bella enough for giving up his time to present,” Mr O’Connor said.

“Council has recently implemented a range of initiatives to improve employee wellbeing following a 2020 all-staff survey. These initiatives reflect Council’s staff values including ensuring staff are supported, striving to create a caring and healthy workplace.

“One key takeaway from Cr Bella’s presentation is that, while it is important to ask colleagues or loved ones if they are OK, we need to be prepared for what to do if they say no. There are a range of organisations to refer people to as a starting point including Lifeline, however assisting loved ones can be as simple as setting up an appointment with their GP.”

A range of resources for Queensland Mental Health Week can be accessed at qldmentalhealthweek.org.au. Businesses are encouraged to host an event as part of Safe Work Month this October – for more information visit safeworkaustralia.gov.au.