Our Mental Health and Wellbeing Connect Centre's recent 'Family Fun Day' reminds us that joy can be a 'radical act'

The smell of sizzling sausages and fried onions drifted through the streets of Sunshine last Saturday, drawing people toward the outdoor space of our Western Metro Mental Health and Wellbeing Connect Centre. 

Around 50 carers and family members from across the community gathered to partake in a ‘Family Fun Day’ – organised in collaboration with Satellite Foundation and Western Health – which included a range of arts and crafts activities, face painting, games, free massages, and circus workshops run by the Women’s Circus. 

Our Western Metro Mental Health and Wellbeing Connect Centre supports people caring for someone experiencing mental health challenges, psychological distress, mental illness or substance use issues. Recognising that care is not confined to a 9–5, the Centre provides support across extended hours, with events like this offering a more informal, community-focused way to connect. 

“The landscape of support services that operate from 9–5 doesn’t really reflect the reality for carers, whose role is part of their everyday life. That’s why weekend events like this are so important. It’s just so nice to see people having fun and connecting with one another,” says attendee Anh-Thu. 

“I think it’s especially nice to see the older kids have fun, who are often a subgroup of carers that people really forget about.” 

Throughout the afternoon, the Centre’s garden space came alive with activity. At the circus station, participants tried their hand at juggling, diabolo and ribbon dancing. Nearby, a group of young people crafted sun catchers and painted rocks, while others lined up for face and body painting – including a trio of sisters and their mum who were having their arms embellished with bright flowers and sparkling diamantes. 

Sophie, from Women’s Circus, said the workshops are about more than just learning new skills. 

“The Women’s Circus is a safe space for people to reconnect with their minds and bodies, which isn’t always an easy thing to do. This can be especially true for people who have experienced stress or trauma,” she says. 

“To be able to set aside time for some fun and whimsy…that is a radical act, and a privilege I imagine many people in this community maybe aren’t able to do very often.”  

Inside the Centre, a quieter kind of care was on offer. Carers were invited to take time out with free massage treatments.  

“We’re not suggesting that a single day like this will transform people’s lives,” says Nick, who manages the program. “What we hope is that people can slow down, spend quality time together, and make some positive memories.”  

“And also, importantly, connect with other members of this community,” says Anh-Thu. “There is often a real stigma you face when you’re caring for someone. There’s also, of course, the very real stigma of facing mental health challenges.” 

“Having spaces for people to connect who understand what it’s like is unique, and very, very important.”