headspace day 2025

headspace Port Macquarie celebrated National headspace Day in style this October, encouraging young people to “make space” for the things that matter most to their mental health.

The annual awareness day, held nationwide in October, shines a light on the importance of supporting the mental health and wellbeing of young Australians. This year’s theme, “Make Space,” inspired headspace Port Macquarie to host a free community event called “Make Space to be Yourself.”

Held at Roto House on October 9th 2025, the event welcomed young people aged 12–25 for an afternoon of games, music, activities, food, and plenty of fun. There was cookie decorating, egg & spoon races, makeup workshops by Aria Beautiful and circus skills by Harlequin Hoops. Attendees also enjoyed free giveaways including cupcakes made by our consortia team and the most amazing cakes donated by 'Baked by Katie' while connecting with friends, meeting new people, and learning more about ways to care for their wellbeing.

The event, led by the headspace Youth Reference Group (YRG), provided a safe and relaxed space for young people to unwind, express themselves, and simply “be.” The group’s youth volunteers took the lead in creating an inclusive environment that encouraged connection and positivity.

“It wasn’t about adding more to anyone’s to-do list,” said Sandy Guthrie, headspace Port Macquarie’s Community Engagement Officer and event coordinator. “It was about making time for what really makes a difference in your life—whether that means taking a moment for yourself or doing something that lifts your spirits. Mental health and wellbeing are worth making space for.”

David Rogers, headspace Services Manager, said this year’s celebration was especially meaningful thanks to the involvement of the wider headspace family, including youth and family volunteers, as well as the headspace Consortia.

The Consortia—made up of representatives from Port Macquarie Hastings Council, ETC, The Buttery, Mission Australia, Charles Sturt University, the Mid North Coast Local Health District, and local GPs—played an important role in bringing the event to life.

“We’re fortunate to have such a supportive network of organisations in our community,” Rogers said. “Through collaboration, we stay connected to the real issues facing young people and can deliver quality activities and programs that improve their wellbeing.”

The “Make Space to be Yourself” event was a reminder that sometimes, the best thing we can do for our mental health is to pause, connect, and simply make space to shine.

headspace Port Macquarie would like to give everyone involved a BIG THANK YOU :)