By BEN CAMERON
MORE than 1000 people are expected to attend a major mental health forum in Pakenham next year.
One of Australia’s most high profile psychologists and a founding member of the National Centre Against Bullying Dr Michael Carr-Gregg will be a keynote speaker at the event at Beaconhills College on 17 March.
Dr Carr-Gregg has built a strong media profile through regular appearances on Sunrise, Neil Mitchell’s Morning Show and regular columns for various publications.
Chairwoman of the forum committee Marta Faithfull said the free event will be held to raise awareness of adolescent mental health in one of the fastest growing residential corridors in the country.
“We are conducting an information evening targeting schools in the area, students, parents and teachers to come along and listen and learn to improve our skills on how to protect the youth in our shire,” she said.
“It’s going to be a very big event for the shire with over 1000 people expected to attend. It should be one of the biggest health forums held in the area.
“There are six schools just in Pakenham we’re expecting to be involved, there’s a very wide market to inform.
“We’re also in the process of locking in another speaker who will provide information on how children can protect themselves online.
“There will be stands outside the hall to gather and discuss literature.”
Deakin University School of Medicine Associate Professor Felice Jacka will also speak.
A principal research fellow based in Geelong, Prof Jacka has spent the past seven years researching how diet relates to mental health.
A third speaker is also being finalised.
The forum is a project between the Rotary Club of Pakenham, Inner Wheel of Pakenham and the Cardinia District Scouts.
For more information to go Rotary Club of Pakenham’s Facebook page.
