FRASER Coast Mates held their 2nd annual dinner this year with their iconic pink theme to raise funds for mental health awareness and urgent counselling for the local community.

This year over 200 people came together at the Hervey Bay RSL in a sea of pink to unite as a community and celebrate the conversations and breaking down the stigma associated with mental health.

Fraser Coast Mates President, Darren Bosley, says they continually amazed by how the community comes together to support each other.

“Our organisation began over seven years ago through tragic circumstances”, says Mr Bosley. 

“We lost a dear friend to a mental illness but what has come from this has been a community spirit that wants to make a change in how we deal with mental health support.”

The guest speaker was Warren Davies, better known as The Unbreakable Farmer. 

His story inspired the audience as he told the struggles of a dairy farmer and having to walk away from his family farm and starting over. 

His genuine empathy for people who have had to experience similar struggles in life was obvious with Warren making a strong connection with many.

“The dinner was a fantastic evening of conversation, connection and community”, says Warren. 

“I was warmly welcomed by this community and made connections that will last a long time into the future.”

The event raised important funds for counselling sessions made available to the local community through an auction of items including a signed 2023 Queensland State of Origin Jersey donated by the winning coach Billy Slater. 

The crowd was entertained by auctioneer Michael Batterham, agent for major sponsor Prime Agents.

The night finished in style with internationally recognised tribute band The Killer Queen Experience who played all of the Queen hits, sounding and looking very much like the late great Freddie Mercury.

If you need support, please visit their website www.frasercoastmates.com.au