Dunsborough venue pushes for better mental health

Dunsborough’s Merchant & Maker proved that push-ups and marshmallows make a powerful combination for mental health awareness, raising over $ 3,000 for headspace Busselton through their community dinner fundraiser last month.

The June 18 event brought locals together around fire pits and fitness challenges as part of the national #pushforbetter mental health campaign, where participants completed 3,214 push-ups over 23 days, representing lives lost to suicide in Australia during 2023.

“It was a fantastic community turnout in support of mental health,” headspace counsellor Nikki Sienkewitz shared.

“Between The Movement Gym and Merchant & Maker, we’ve raised both support and awareness of mental health services in our community.

“There were hundreds of push-ups pumped out, and just as many marshmallows toasted around the fire!”

The Push-Up Challenge partnership with headspace raises consciousness through active participation and open dialogue.

“These conversations help reduce stigma around mental health challenges and encourage seeking help, so people experiencing difficulties don’t feel alone,” headspace Coordinator Margaret River Services, Dorian De Nobrega, explained.

While fundraising is essential, the challenge also emphasises personal wellbeing.

Physical activity benefits both body and mind, as demonstrated by last year’s participants: 99 percent reported feeling fitter and stronger, while 94 percent noted an improvement in their mood.

“You don’t have to be a push-up pro,” Ms De Nobrega said.

“When people registered for the challenge, they chose to help raise vital funds for headspace to support our national youth mental health programs or to directly support their local headspace centre in Bunbury, Busselton or Margaret River.

“With the funds raised, we will be able to pilot new and innovative programs, expand our reach, and improve mental health outcomes for young people living in the region.”

The need for such initiatives remains critical.

Two in five young Australians experience mental health issues each year, with suicide being the leading cause of death for those aged 12-25.

As Australia’s National Youth Mental Health Foundation, headspace provides early intervention services through centres, online support, vocational services, and community engagement.

For Ms Sienkewitz, the cause hits close to home and heart.

“As both a headspace counsellor and a mum, I value the importance of supporting wellbeing in our community and supporting the mental, physical and emotional health of our young people of all ages, and the adults in their lives that support them.”

The Merchant & Maker team, along with their customers and The Movement Gym, demonstrated how local businesses can inspire meaningful community action and lasting positive change by working together for a greater cause.

Their efforts will support headspace Busselton in continuing to provide vital mental health support to young people across the region.

For those wishing to contribute, donations can still be made via the QR code:

If you or someone you know needs support, headspace is there to help. Visit headspace.org.au