Carers from across the Shire are invited to a free community lunch on Thursday 22 October at The Never Never Mind in Dorrigo, as part of National Carers Week.
The event will celebrate the important role carers play in our community, including the often-unseen work they do supporting family members, friends and loved ones.
Bellingen Shire Council Mayor, Cr. Steve Allan said that people may not think of themselves as carers, as looking after their loved ones is a natural part of what they do.
“If you’re caring for a family member, friend or loved one, providing unpaid support to someone with everyday tasks, appointments, emotional support or other aspects of daily life, you may be a carer,” said Mayor Allan.
“If you know someone who regularly supports another person and could benefit from connecting with other carers and finding out about available support, bring them along. Caring for carers and taking time out from caring duties is incredibly important.”
A highlight of the lunch will be a lived-experience presentation from Susan Murphy and Graeme Atkins, who have spent many years sharing their experience of caring and raising awareness of dementia and the important role of unpaid carers.
Susan and Graeme have been partners for 42 years and have both experienced the challenges of caring and living with dementia. Susan was named NSW Caring Partner of the Year in 2011, while Graeme received the Richard Taylor Memorial Award in 2020 for his contribution to global dementia advocacy. Together, they have shared their story at more than 100 public events.
The lunch is being delivered in partnership with Bellingen Shire Council, Neighbourhood Centres of the Bellingen Shire, Carers NSW, Mission Australia, and Community Transport. The afternoon will also include a Rocks of Gratitude activity and information about available support services.
Where: The Never Never Mind, Cudgery St Dorrigo
When: Thursday 22 October, 12-2pm
The lunch is free and all carers in the Bellingen Shire, their family and friends are welcome.
Please RSVP by 15 October. Contact Liz at dnc.coordinator@ncobs.org.au or on 0494 815 603.
Community Transport may be available if you need help getting to the event. Call 1300 812 504.
This event is proudly funded by the NSW Government through the NSW National Carers Week Grant Program.