In Conversation Luncheon – Normalising Mental Health

AFL legend and mental health advocate Wayne Schwass will speak at the next In Conversation Lunch in partnership with USC’s Sunshine Coast Mind and Neuroscience – Thompson Institute.

After a distinguished AFL playing career, Wayne has become a respected sports media broadcaster including his current position with Triple M Footy. In addition to his work within the AFL industry, Wayne has also become a passionate advocate for mental health awareness and suicide prevention after having battled silently with his own mental health for much of his sporting career. Wayne founded the ‘Sunrise Foundation’ that delivered preventative education programs to more than 5000 secondary school students between 2007 to 2010 and in 2017 launched ‘PukaUp’—a social enterprise focusing on mental health, emotional well-being and importantly, suicide prevention.

The day will also feature conversations with local Sunshine Coast guest speakers:

- Seven Network presenter Jillian Whiting who will be returning as emcee for the event
- Cara Koenen - Thompson Institute ambassador and Sunshine Coast Lightning player
- Leon Stensholm - Thompson Institute advocate, counsellor, author and bodybuilder. Leon is also a partner of the Thompson Institute’s Alliance for Suicide Prevention initiative.

"We look forward to sharing stories of recovery, support-giving and the crucial research that is being done right here on the Sunshine Coast that has the potential to change how we treat mental health." - Elise Jione, Thompson Institute Operations Manager

This event is one of a series of events dedicated to opening conversations about important topics that empower, educate and inspire the community. In Conversation – Normalising Mental Health will coincide with RUOK Day Thursday 12 September.

Tickets include entry to the event, a sit down catered lunch, beverages, entertainment.

The USC’s Sunshine Coast Mind and Neuroscience – Thompson Institute is a hub for world-class mental health research, teaching and clinical services, based on the Sunshine Coast.