108 Bargara Rd
Bundaberg East, Qld, 4670
"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya reflects on the deep emotions stirred by the ‘Ringing of the Bells’ ceremony on Day 1 of the Zonta Club of Bundaberg’s 16 Days of Activism campaign, where each toll represents a life lost to gender-based violence in Australia this year.
By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea
As I sat in Buss Park on what was a solemn Monday, the air was heavy with the weight of remembrance. The day marked the beginning of the Zonta Club of Bundaberg’s 16 Days of Activism campaign, coinciding with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
The ‘Ringing of the Bells’ ceremony was about to commence, and each toll would resonate in memory of every woman and child who lost their lives to gender-based violence in Australia this year. The bell tolled 101 times—an alarming and heartbreaking first in triple figures.
The sound of each bell echoed through the park, a stark reminder of the lives cut short, and the families forever changed. As I listened, I reflected on the profound impact this violence has on our community. Each toll was not just a number; it represented a person, a story, a future that was stolen.
Throughout the 16 Days of Activism Campaign, the Zonta Club of Bundaberg has organised various events to raise awareness and promote action against violence.
One of the most poignant events is the Red Shoes Project Art Installation, opening on Saturday, November 30th, behind Fairymead House at the Bundaberg Botanic Gardens, Thronhill Street entrance, Bundaberg North.
This is the fourth installation of its kind in Australia, with 500 pairs of shoes painted red by community members, each pair recognising a life affected by domestic and family violence. It’s a powerful visual representation of the impact of violence and a call to action for all who see it.
As the campaign draws to a close on December 10th, we will gather once more in Buss Park for the final ‘Ringing of the Bells’ ceremony. This time, the bells will toll for every woman and child lost to gender-based violence in 2024, including over the past 16 days. The hope is that the number will not have increased, but history tells us otherwise.
Sitting there, I was filled with a mix of sorrow and resolve. The tolling bells were a call to action, a reminder that we must continue to fight for a future where no more lives are lost to violence.
My hope is that one day, we will no longer need to gather in Buss Park for such a sombre occasion. Until then, we must stand together, support one another, and work tirelessly to eliminate gender-based violence from our community.
"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses IMPACT's recognition as one of the Diversity Council of Australia’s Inclusive Employers for 2024-25 and our ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace.
By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea
As Managing Director of IMPACT Community Services, I am immensely proud to share that we have been named one of the Diversity Council of Australia’s (DCA) Inclusive Employers for 2024-25. This recognition is a testament to our unwavering commitment to fostering a workplace where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their best.
This week, we are also celebrating Inclusion at Work Week (November 18-22). It’s a perfect opportunity to reflect on our achievements and renew our commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace. It’s a time to engage in meaningful conversations, share experiences, and learn from each other to further enhance our inclusive practices.
At IMPACT, diversity and inclusion are not just corporate buzzwords; they are the bedrock of our organisational culture. We believe that diversity—the rich mix of people from different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives—enriches our workplace and enhances our ability to serve our community effectively. Inclusion, on the other hand, is about ensuring that this diversity is not only acknowledged but celebrated and integrated into every aspect of our operations.
Our recent recognition by the DCA reflects the hard work and dedication of our entire team. The Inclusion at Work survey highlights that 3.0% of our employees identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, 18.2% have a disability, 78.8% are women, 12.0% identify as LGBTIQ+, and 21.2% are over the age of 55. These figures not only surpass national averages but also underscore our commitment to creating a truly representative workforce.
The survey results also reveal that 62% of our employees feel they are part of an inclusive team, compared to 46% in the broader Australian workforce. This is a significant achievement and speaks volumes about the inclusive culture we have cultivated.
Additionally, 59% of our managers are considered highly inclusive, compared to the national average of 31%. These managers are instrumental in fostering an environment where everyone feels valued, differences are celebrated, and inappropriate behaviours are promptly addressed.
As we celebrate this recognition, we remain acutely aware that our journey towards inclusivity is ongoing. There is always room for improvement, and we are committed in our efforts to build an even more inclusive future where every employee feels safe, valued, and included, and that everyone in the community is respected, connected, progressing, and contributing.
For now, though, I want to say thank you to every person in the IMPACT Community Services team for being part of this incredible journey. Your dedication and commitment are unwavering, and by continuing our work, we will further embed the rich characteristics of diversity and inclusion within our families, our workplaces and our broader community.
IMPACT Community Services held an end-of-year event for the Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) on 6 November 2024, celebrating volunteers from Bundaberg, Childers and Gin Gin. The event brought together these dedicated individuals to thank them for their remarkable contributions throughout the year.
In January – September 2024, ACVVS volunteers provided over 5,600 visits to older people in Bundaberg, Gin Gin, Childers, Gayndah, and Monto, offering companionship and connection to those who might feel socially isolated.
At the celebration, IMPACT recognised the dedication of volunteers with service awards, honouring those who have generously given their time to ACVVS for 1, 2, 5, and 10 years. All other volunteers received appreciation certificates, with some having served more than 10 and even 20 years.
IMPACT Managing Director Tanya O’Shea, Health and Support General Manager Nancy Oosterhof and ACVVS and ACVVS Coordinator Heather Hinsbey expressed their gratitude at the event.
"Our volunteers are the heart of this program. Their dedication has brought joy and comfort to hundreds of older people in our community,” Heather said.
“Through simple acts of kindness - sharing a conversation, playing a game, or just being there to share a cup of tea, our volunteers create connections that truly uplift the spirits of those they visit.
“Our volunteers also play a vital role in sharing stories across generations, preserving valuable life lessons and experiences that might otherwise be lost.”
This annual event serves as a special thank you to our volunteers, acknowledging the significant difference they make in the lives of local seniors. Each visit fosters meaningful relationships and enhances the wellbeing of those older people in our community who may suffer from loneliness.
The End of Year Celebration for our Gayndah and Monto volunteers will be held separately.
For more information on how to get involved, please contact IMPACT on or 4154 4233 or visit the ACVVS page on IMPACT's website.
"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses the profound impact of small acts of kindness in our daily lives and how they create lasting connections and a more compassionate world.
By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea
“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” — Maya Angelou
These words capture the heart of kindness and its unique ability to leave a lasting impression on the hearts of others, shaping memories and connections that can endure a lifetime. It’s not about grand gestures but the simple, genuine moments that make others feel valued and seen.
In our fast-paced, digitally driven world, the significance of kindness is sometimes overshadowed by the hustle of daily life. Yet it’s often in these small, unassuming acts that we discover the true essence of our shared humanity.
A colleague once shared a story from her childhood that beautifully illustrates this. As the new kid in school, she felt painfully shy and out of place. On her first day, she sat alone at lunch, until a girl from her class came over, sat beside her, and offered half of her sandwich with a warm smile and friendly conversation. That small gesture changed everything; it made her feel seen, welcomed, and valued.
Decades later, she doesn’t remember what they talked about or even what was on the sandwich—but she remembers exactly how she felt. That simple act of kindness left a lasting impact, inspiring her to be a welcoming presence for others.
Kindness is a universal language that transcends barriers, connecting us on a deeply human level—and its impact goes beyond the moment. Research shows that kindness benefits both the giver and the receiver, boosting mood, reducing stress, and fostering well-being. Within communities, kindness becomes a powerful bond, building trust and a sense of belonging across generations, cultures, and socioeconomic lines.
World Kindness Day, celebrated on 13 November 2024, is more than a reminder; it’s an invitation to embrace kindness as a way of life through small, everyday actions that collectively contribute to a more compassionate and understanding world.
Whether it’s a compliment to a colleague, a thank-you to a service worker, or a supportive word to a friend, these moments matter. They create a ripple effect, fostering a world where people feel valued and connected.
Imagine the world we could create if each of us committed to one small act of kindness each day.
So, here’s a challenge for us all: let’s choose kindness—not just for one day, but every day. Kindness has a way of coming back to us, shaping the world around us for the better. With each small act, we can make others feel seen, appreciated, and connected, just as one child’s simple gesture continues to resonate in a heart decades later.
"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses how understanding evolutionary psychology can help us look beyond first impressions, enabling us to form deeper, more meaningful connections by appreciating the true value of others.
By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea
We’ve all heard the saying, “Don’t judge a book by its cover,” yet many of us still do—picking up a book, drawn in by an intriguing cover, only to be let down by the content, or overlooking a captivating story simply because the cover didn’t catch our eye. It’s the same with people. We often make snap judgments based on surface-level impressions, missing the opportunity to truly understand and appreciate the richness of others.
Evolutionary psychology offers a fascinating perspective on why we make these quick assessments. By considering the principles of evolution, we gain insights into the underlying mechanisms that shape our thoughts, behaviours, and reactions, including these instinctive evaluations.
At the core of these responses is the brain stem, often referred to as reptilian brain. This ancient part of our brain governs automatic, self-preserving behaviours. It plays a crucial role in determining whether someone we encounter is beneficial or potentially harmful to us.
Mark Bowden, an expert in human behaviour and body language, explains that our brain collects data on individuals based on evolutionary criteria that have been refined over millions of years. This data collection triggers gut reactions that help us categorise people into one of four groups.
Friend
When we first meet someone, our brain searches for cues that align with our concept of a friend. These cues might include a warm smile, open body language, or physical appearance and attire that resemble those of people in our social group. Sometimes, we might even see a reflection of ourselves in the other person, which further reinforces the friend category.
Enemy/Predator
Conversely, if our brain detects signals that fit the enemy or predator category, we become cautious. Lack of eye contact, minimal verbal communication, or other behaviours that trigger suspicion can lead us to view someone as a potential threat. This response is rooted in our survival instincts, which prioritise safety and caution.
Potential Sexual Partner
The third category involves recognising potential sexual partners. While personal preferences and values play a significant role in our choices, initial attraction often hinges on basic physical characteristics. Traits such as height, athletic build, facial symmetry, and other markers of genetic fitness can spark an unconscious attraction, driven by the evolutionary goal of producing healthy offspring.
Indifference
Interestingly, the default category for most of the 8.2 billion people on Earth is indifference. Evolutionary and behavioural psychology suggest that we are predisposed to be indifferent to most people we encounter. Unless someone exhibits specific signals that trigger a friend, enemy, or potential sexual partner response, they remain in the indifference category.
Building Relationships
Forming meaningful relationships requires effort and insight. We can’t always explain why certain relationships work and others don’t, or why we walk straight past someone without a sideways glance, yet another captures your attention immediately.
However, our instincts often respond to subtle cues; for instance, negative body language—such as eye rolls, crossed arms, or pursed lips—can signal hostility, while a genuine smile and eye contact convey warmth and friendliness. These signals play a significant role in shaping our perceptions and interactions with others.
By leveraging our knowledge of evolutionary psychology, we can make more informed decisions about how we present ourselves and interpret others, ultimately fostering more positive and productive relationships.
So, while our evolutionary instincts prompt us to make quick judgments about others, it’s essential to remember that these initial impressions are just the beginning. Just like choosing a book, it’s only after we delve deeper that we truly understand the value of the people we meet.
"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses how success and wellbeing can and should coexist, highlighting IMPACT's commitment to fostering both through resilience, adaptability, and meaningful community change.
By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea
Generally, when we think about success and ‘successful people’, we assume that they possess something very special. It could be talent, perseverance, intelligence, specific skills, education, or maybe even influential connections. Perhaps, if we took this one step further and created a formula for what it takes to be successful, it could look something like the ability to out-work, out-think, out-skill or outlast other people.
The research, however, tells us something very different.
Success and wellbeing are often seen as separate goals, yet they share common qualities. The same traits that foster success also nurture wellbeing. Achieving wellbeing requires mental toughness—overcoming self-criticism and staying motivated. Setting personal goals and meeting them, like committing to exercise, is a form of success.
Yet, when people don’t meet their idea of success and start to feel unsuccessful, their mental toughness may deteriorate, their consistency may start to decline, or their belief in themselves starts to disappear. For some, it may manifest into other behaviours – they could become depressed, isolated, disconnected, develop unhealthy eating patterns, use alcohol or drugs to numb the pain or some may even experience suicide ideation.
It is not lost on me, that when we think about wellbeing, there are some dominant themes that emerge that are not only linked to the way that we view success, but they also underscore the work that we do at IMPACT.
At IMPACT, we aim to improve people’s lives by creating meaningful change. But this requires going beyond good intentions. Our work is about consistency, mental resilience, and collaboration, underpinned by a clear vision—one that emphasises autonomy and agency. We believe success in helping others thrive hinges on building independence, taking responsibility for wellbeing, and honouring the principle, "nothing about me without me."
Achieving our vision takes more than words. It requires strategic adaptability, a strong commitment to learning, and relentless effort. This is especially true amid social challenges like climate change, cost-of-living pressures, and mental health crises. Effective leadership means tackling what we can influence, forming meaningful partnerships, and finding new ways to address old problems.
Over the past year, we’ve increased our community involvement, sought partnerships, and learned from our setbacks. Failure doesn’t define us—it refines us, providing insights essential for our mission. And we know that sticking to the same routines yields the same results. By doing things differently, we open ourselves to new solutions.
True wellbeing involves rethinking habits and behaviours that may no longer serve us. Change, while uncomfortable, can also drive us to grow. When people embrace change, they often emerge with newfound resilience, inspiring similar shifts in others. Imagine the collective impact of enhancing mental health, education, economic security, and safety. By nurturing these, we elevate our community’s resilience.
At IMPACT, we support people in creating the change they seek. Through questions like, “How might this change what you’re capable of?” or “How might this change what you value?” we help others redefine their lives.
So, let’s shift the question from “Would you rather achieve success or wellbeing?” to “How can we achieve both?” Success and wellbeing aren’t either-or choices—they coexist as essential parts of a fulfilling life.
"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses Wayne Holdsworth’s mission, motivated by the tragic loss of his son Mac last year, to combat suicide, cyberbullying, and sextortion through his SmackTalk charity and the Unplug24 initiative.
By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea
Every day in Australia, eight families are shattered by the loss of a loved one to suicide. For Wayne Holdsworth, this devastating reality hit home on October 24, 2023, when his 17-year-old son Mac tragically took his own life. In the wake of this unimaginable loss, Wayne has transformed his grief into a mission: to save others from the same fate.
This mission has taken shape through a charity called SmackTalk, a name that carries deep personal meaning. While “smack talk” often refers to playful banter, it holds a powerful new significance here. The name honours Mac, who was an avid basketball player, while also taking aim at the darker side of online interactions—cyberbullying and sextortion. These are not harmless jabs or jokes; they can have fatal consequences.
Wayne’s message is simple but urgent: listening saves lives. Through free, 40-minute SmackTalk sessions, Wayne and his team aim to equip people with the tools to really listen. Whether it’s in a sporting club, school, or business, these sessions are designed to break down the barriers that prevent meaningful conversations. Many, like Mac, may say they’re “fine,” but these sessions focus on how to dig deeper, how to truly hear the unspoken struggles behind those words. With over 3,200 Australians lost to suicide in 2023 alone, these efforts could not be more critical.
Cyberbullying and Sexual Extortion: A Silent Epidemic
Another element of SmackTalk’s mission is addressing the alarming rise of cyberbullying and sexual extortion. Both issues disproportionately affect young people, and the consequences are devastating. Sextortion cases have skyrocketed by nearly 400% in the last 18 months, a terrifying trend that leaves young victims feeling trapped and hopeless. Mac was terrorised by a predator—a 45-year-old man pretending to be a 15-year-old girl tricked him into sending sexual photos and then used the threat of publication to financially blackmail him.
Just as shocking is that more than half of all young people in Australia have experienced cyberbullying. One such tragedy struck close to home in Bundaberg, where 14-year-old Isla Marschke was driven to take her own life after sustained online bullying. Her story echoes that of so many others, reminding us that these faceless attacks have real, heartbreaking, and far-reaching consequences.
Unplug24
To raise awareness and funds, SmackTalk is launching Unplug24, a simple but powerful initiative. On Thursday, October 24, Wayne is asking people to stay off social media for 24 hours to honour Mac’s memory and to help save lives.
Taking a break from social media might seem like a small gesture, but this act of unplugging serves many purposes: it encourages a mental reset from the toxicity of online platforms, supports human connections and deep conversations, increases awareness about the dangers lurking in digital spaces, and raises funds to support vital programs like SmackTalk’s suicide prevention and sexual extortion awareness sessions.
The loss of Mac, Isla, and so many others is a tragedy we must confront together. As you read this, we will have already completed the challenge, but it is not too late. This issue is too critical to limit to one day a year. Pick a day – any day - where you commit to staying off social media for 24 hours and ask your friends and family to join you. Together we can create change, and hopefully prevent further tragedies and help young people get the support they need.
Learn more about the work of Wayne Holdsworth and SmackTalk here: https://smacktalk.com.au/
"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses how to break free from negative meaning making by recognising when it becomes unhelpful and using mindfulness practices to reframe experiences and foster resilience.
By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea
Last week, I delved into the concept of "meaning making"—the way we assign significance to life’s events, both good and bad. It’s a natural process, as we strive to understand our experiences and make sense of what happens to us. However, as I mentioned, while meaning making can help us find purpose, it can also lead to distress when we become too focused on negative interpretations.
Take, for example, someone overlooked for a promotion at work. They might begin to internalise this as personal failure, a sign that they are not good enough. In this case, meaning making leads to a cycle of self-doubt and anxiety, trapping them in a story that isn’t serving their mental wellbeing.
If you’ve found yourself in a similar situation—where your interpretation of an event is fuelling stress, frustration, or feelings of inadequacy—what can you do?
The first step is recognising when meaning making is becoming unhelpful. Pay attention to your internal dialogue—are you fixating on a narrative of blame, self-doubt, or hopelessness? If so, then it may be time to shift your focus. Instead of continuing to ask, "Why did this happen to me?" or "What does this mean for my future?" focus on the present. This doesn't mean dismissing your feelings, but rather stepping back and assessing whether your interpretation is contributing to your wellbeing or undermining it.
Mindfulness practices can help break the mental loop of negative thinking. In moments where the narrative isn’t serving you, try these steps to regain control of your thoughts:
Now, let’s revisit the scenario of someone being overlooked for a promotion. Instead of viewing it as failure or ruminating on what they did wrong, the person could reframe it as an opportunity to reassess their career goals, gain new skills, or seek feedback. By letting go of the negative meaning, they can refocus on what’s within their control and use the experience as a springboard for growth. This shift in perspective frees them from the cycle of self-doubt and allows them to take steps toward their goals with renewed clarity.
In moments when meaning making isn’t serving you, it’s helpful to remember that life is full of twists and turns. As Greek philosopher Heraclitus wisely said, “The only constant in life is change.” Though some changes may feel monumental, they are just moments in a longer journey. By accepting it, we learn resilience. And by embracing the present, we can find peace in knowing that we can handle whatever comes next—one moment at a time.
"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses how meaning-making during challenging times can shape our understanding and resilience, emphasising the importance of mindfulness and balanced perspectives in navigating life’s uncertainties.
By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea
Life is filled with moments that shape our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. Some of these moments are joyful, filled with laughter and love, while others can be painful, leaving us feeling lost and uncertain. It’s during these challenging times that we often become fixated on a single event, attaching deep meaning to it. This process, known as meaning-making, is how we strive to understand and interpret life’s complexities.
Consider the story of Sarah, a talented artist who lost her studio in a fire. For months, she dwelled on that moment—the flash of flames, the destruction of her work, and the overwhelming sense of loss. In her mind, that single event defined her future, clouding her ability to see beyond the pain. Yet, it was only through a supportive community and her own resilience that she began to reconstruct her narrative. Sarah learned that while the fire was a significant moment in her life, it did not have to dictate her entire story.
Meaning-making can be both beneficial and detrimental. On one hand, it allows us to derive personal significance from our experiences, fostering resilience and a sense of purpose. Sarah eventually found strength in her journey, using her art to express her grief and recovery. Her story became one of transformation, demonstrating that moments of hardship can lead to profound personal growth.
On the other hand, when we overemphasise negative interpretations, we can trap ourselves in a cycle of overthinking. We become so focused on a moment of pain that we fail to recognise the ebb and flow of life. This fixation can prevent us from moving forward, holding us captive in a narrative that does not serve us. As we navigate life’s inevitable changes, it’s essential to maintain a balanced perspective.
Change is the only constant in life, yet many of us resist it, troubled by uncertainty. We strive for control, crafting plans to shield ourselves from pain and mitigate difficulties. However, no matter how meticulously we plan, life will always surprise us. Embracing the reality that “this too shall pass” can offer comfort. Joy, love, and peace coexist with suffering and grief; both are integral parts of the human experience.
As we observe Mental Health Month, it’s a reminder to cultivate mindfulness. By anchoring ourselves in the present moment, we can appreciate that the only time we truly have is now. Instead of allowing the past to dictate our narrative, we can focus on the steps we take today. Each moment, whether joyful or painful, offers an opportunity for growth and reflection.
Ultimately, while some moments feel defining, they are just that—moments. Life is a series of experiences, each contributing to our understanding of ourselves. By practicing meaning-making in a balanced way, we can harness our experiences to foster resilience, find purpose, and navigate the uncertainties of life with grace. Let’s embrace change, allow ourselves to feel, and remember that every moment is a chance for renewal.
"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses the profound impact of diverse lived experiences in mental health and the importance of recognising and valuing these perspectives to foster a compassionate and understanding community.
By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea
Mental health affects everyone in unique ways, but the power of lived experience is what truly brings us together. Whether you are directly affected or supporting someone through their journey, your perspective matters.
It’s important to recognise that lived experience is not a one-size-fits-all concept. Experiences vary dramatically depending on individual circumstances, and appreciating this diversity is essential to building a more compassionate and understanding community.
Take, for example, a mother caring for a child diagnosed with a mental illness. Her lived experience is rooted in love, concern, and the daily effort to advocate for her child’s needs. From the outside, it may seem like a routine of doctor’s appointments, therapy sessions, and careful monitoring, but her journey runs much deeper. She has to balance her child's emotional ups and downs while learning the triggers that lead to meltdowns or depressive episodes. There are sleepless nights, relentless advocacy for school accommodations, and the constant challenge of feeling the need to justify her child’s behaviour to others. Most days, she ‘armours up’, putting on a brave face, yet inside she carries the burden of the unknown. Uncertain of each new day while unequivocally hopeful for her child’s future.
Now, contrast that with the lived experience of someone personally diagnosed with a mental illness. Their journey may include coping with the internal struggles of anxiety or depression, managing medications, and balancing life amidst the weight of stigma. This person might spend their days combating thoughts that are difficult to articulate, feeling disconnected from friends or family, and dealing with the isolating effects of their condition. They might wrestle with the uncertainty of whether they will ever feel "normal" or wonder if others see them as a burden. But despite these challenges, their lived experience fosters resilience, self-awareness, and, often, a deeper understanding of their own needs and strengths.
Then there’s the experience of a husband supporting his wife through her mental health journey. His lived experience is about emotional strength and patience as he navigates the highs and lows associated with her symptoms. He might wake up to find that his wife is struggling to get out of bed or battling overwhelming feelings of despair. In those moments, his role is to provide support, a safe space, and encouragement without judgment. He learns to identify potential triggers and supports her to develop coping strategies, all while shouldering his own emotional toll. He, too, grows in resilience and empathy, even though his experience is different from that of his wife.
Each of these perspectives is distinct, yet all are united by a common thread: the profound impact of mental health on individuals and their loved ones. While some are not living through the illness themselves, their lived experience is no less valuable. As a community, it is imperative that we recognise and honour this.
The collective wisdom derived from these varied lived experiences can drive meaningful change. Recognising and integrating these diverse perspectives allows us to foster a community where empathy and understanding prevail, paving the way for a more inclusive and supportive environment for all. Only then can we unlock the full potential of our community and achieve truly amazing things together.
"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses how embracing pain and choosing long-term happiness over temporary pleasure can lead to lasting wellbeing.
By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea
In life, it’s essential to acknowledge not just the role of pleasure and happiness, but also the experience of pain. Mental and emotional pain is a universal part of life, yet how we respond to it can profoundly affect our overall wellbeing.
Pleasure offers a quick escape from pain. It’s easy to reach for something that feels good in the moment, whether it’s indulging in comfort food, scrolling through social media, or binge-watching a show. These activities offer temporary relief by stimulating the brain's dopamine response, but they don’t address the root causes of pain.
Consider Alison, a young professional who used alcohol to wind down after work. Initially, it eased her stress, but over time, she needed more to achieve the same relief. What started as occasional drinks turned into a nightly habit. The temporary pleasure masked her underlying anxiety, and her mental health declined as deeper issues remained unaddressed. This cycle of short-term pleasure left her disconnected and struggling. Her reliance on alcohol, which provided short-term relief from the discomfort she was feeling, created a devastating cycle, yet left the underlying pain unresolved.
Pain, when faced head-on, can become a catalyst for long-term happiness. Acknowledging the feeling and allowing ourselves to face it rather than trying to numb it, stuff it down or run from it, can open the door to self-reflection and healing.
Happiness is a more lasting antidote to pain. It comes from deeper, more meaningful experiences like connection, growth, and purpose. While happiness doesn’t erase pain, it helps us cope with it in healthier ways. Building strong relationships, for example, can provide support when we’re struggling. Engaging in activities that challenge us, like learning a new skill or pursuing a passion, can help us process pain, turning it into personal growth.
Take Jack, for instance, who found himself stuck in a job he hated. The daily frustration and stress took a toll on his mental health, but rather than ignoring his unhappiness or searching for short-lived relief, he decided to take action and make a change. He returned to school to pursue a career he was passionate about. Though the journey was challenging, and the pain of uncertainty was real, the eventual sense of fulfillment and long-term happiness far outweighed his initial discomfort.
In the end, life isn’t just about avoiding pain or chasing pleasure. Pleasure has its place, but it can’t sustain us. Happiness, built on connection, purpose, and self-awareness, offers a more enduring path through both the highs and lows of life. By embracing pain and choosing happiness over temporary pleasure, we are giving ourselves the best chance to foster lasting wellbeing.
"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses the essence of allyship, emphasising its importance as a continuous commitment to action, listening, learning, and advocating for marginalised communities to create a more just and equitable world.
By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea
Prior to commencing work in the not-for-profit space over 25 years ago, I had no idea what a not for profit was, how they operated or the important role that the sector plays within communities. Recognising and advocating for key services and highlighting to funding bodies the social impact being created is essential, ideally demonstrating improvement in quality of life, reductions in inequality and poverty and improved health outcomes for some of the most marginalised.
Allyship was a term that was completely foreign to me, however it is important in a conversation about the value that not for profits provide. It is more than just a term; it’s a commitment to action, a conscious choice to stand up for those who experience harm, oppression, and exclusion. As someone who strives to be an effective ally, I’ve learned that this journey is as much about listening and learning as it is about advocating and trying to be heard by key decision-makers.
At its core, allyship is about recognising the privileges we hold and using them to advocate for and support marginalised communities. It's about asking the right questions and being genuinely curious about the experiences of others, starting with a simple, yet profound, question: "What is the most helpful thing that we could do right now?" This isn’t just a polite inquiry; it’s an invitation to understand someone else's reality, to step outside your own experiences, and to offer support in a way that is underpinned by self-determination and enables the person to maintain their dignity.
Effective allyship requires us to listen without judgment and with the intent to learn. It’s not enough to just hear words; we must understand the lived experiences behind them. This means seeking knowledge independently, not placing the burden of education on those we wish to support. We should continually educate ourselves, using credible resources to better understand the issues faced by those we are advocating for.
One of the most challenging aspects of being an ally is recognising when to step back. It’s essential to be aware of the space we occupy and to ensure that marginalised voices are centred in discussions that affect them. Our role is not to dominate the conversation but to amplify the voices of those who are often unheard.
Allyship also involves a willingness to be corrected and to grow from those experiences. Mistakes are inevitable, but it’s how we respond to them that matters. When someone tells us we’ve gotten it wrong, the appropriate response is gratitude, an apology, and a commitment to do better.
Importantly, allyship isn’t about seeking recognition or accolades. It’s about standing in solidarity, sometimes quietly and sometimes boldly, while always being mindful of the potential risks to both us and those we support.
Ultimately, allyship is not a one-time act but a continuous commitment to standing up for others and working toward a more just and equitable world. Your actions, no matter how small, can make a significant difference.
"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses the urgent need for increased funding for community-based mental health services in Queensland to address the growing demand and prevent crises.
By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea
As the Managing Director of IMPACT Community Services, I have witnessed the profound struggles facing individuals in our community when it comes to mental health. The increasing demand for community-based mental health support in Queensland is undeniable, yet the resources available to meet this need are woefully inadequate. Queensland’s community-based mental health sector remains one of the lowest funded in the country, leaving too many of our residents without the help they desperately require.
At IMPACT, we are on the frontline, providing essential services that make a real difference in people’s lives. Our programs, which are often led by peer support workers with lived experience, offer empathetic and immediate care to those who need it most. These services are not just beneficial; they are vital in preventing mental health crises and helping individuals rebuild their lives, whether that means securing employment, reconnecting with loved ones, or simply regaining a sense of normalcy.
However, despite our proven ability to deliver these critical services, we are constrained by inadequate funding. This lack of resources can delay essential support for those in need, sometimes with devastating consequences. It is clear that while clinical care is crucial, community-based services like ours play an equally important role in the mental health landscape.
This is why IMPACT Community Services is standing with the Queensland Alliance for Mental Health in advocating for greater funding for community mental health support. We fully endorse their call for an additional $150 million in recurrent state funding, which would ensure that all Queenslanders can access the care they need within their own communities.
With the upcoming state election, we urge local candidates, Ms Bree Watson (LNP for Bundaberg) and Mr Tom Smith MP (Member for Bundaberg - Labor), to commit to this essential funding. Too many Queenslanders are slipping through the gaps. The time for action is now. By investing in community-based mental health services, we can prevent crises, support recovery, and ultimately, save lives. Together, we can make a difference. I encourage everyone to join us in this crucial campaign.
"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses how losing her sense of taste and smell due to illness led her to rediscover the importance of engaging all her senses mindfully in daily life.
By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea
Imagine waking up one day and realising you can’t taste your morning coffee or smell the fresh sea air. This happened to me recently due to an illness, and it profoundly changed my perception of the world. After several days without taste and smell, I became more attuned to my remaining senses and started to truly appreciate what I had temporarily lost.
The most vivid reminder of the power of our senses came when I was pregnant and experiencing debilitating morning sickness. Certain smells in our home would set me off at random times, day and night. While a vacation provided relief, the symptoms returned the moment I smelled those familiar scents again – a vivid reminder of the power of our senses, and the link between smell, mood, and even physical health.
As a parent, I’ve watched my children explore the world with all their senses. When they were toddlers, everything was an opportunity for discovery— looking, listening, smelling, touching, and tasting (unfortunately nothing was off limits with what went in their mouths). Their sensory world was vibrant and all-encompassing.
But as they grew older, I noticed a shift. Emotions ruled their world, and sensory experiences became more selective, often reduced to the visual and auditory input they received from screens.
This is a common occurrence in our modern world, where we are bombarded with stimuli, particularly through devices that demand our constant attention. Whether it’s the incessant noise of urban life or the visual assault of screens, our senses are often overwhelmed, leading us to unconsciously close off from the full spectrum of sensory experiences.
I found myself guilty of this, too—so focused on getting through the day that I rarely paused to truly engage with my environment. I had forgotten the simple joys of savouring a meal, feeling the warmth of the sun, or listening to the subtle sounds of nature.
But all is not lost. If you’re reading this and recognising that you, too, may have dulled your senses, there’s hope. Reawakening your sensory awareness is possible with a little intentional practice. Start small, with just a few minutes a day. Choose a sense you’d like to focus on and try these simple exercises:
It’s easy to overlook the sensory richness around us. By reconnecting with our senses, we bring more mindfulness and enjoyment into daily life. So today, pause, breathe, and rediscover the world through your senses—you might just find a new appreciation for the simple pleasures of life.
"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses the importance of balancing listening and speaking in conversations, especially when dealing with habitual interrupters, and offers strategies for responding gracefully to ensure everyone feels valued and understood.
By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea
William Hazlitt once said, “The art of conversation is the art of hearing as well as being heard.” This wisdom rings true, especially when we encounter habitual interrupters in our daily interactions.
Being interrupted mid-way through a sentence can be frustrating. A former work colleague used to do it continually, mainly because we never gave him a reason not to. We got used to him doing it and allowed it to happen repeatedly. One day it wore thin, and eventually someone unleashed in a moment of frustration retorting, "please just let me finish what I was saying!"
In hindsight, it was probably a conversation that we should have had with him sooner. It could have also been handled differently and instead of biting our tongues and nodding intently to his contribution, we could have brought this to his attention in a different way.
Before we get into that though, why is it that some people tend to be habitual interrupters?
For some, it may be linked to culture, where misunderstandings can result due to there being no universal acceptable standard of the average length of a pause in a conversation. Some cultures will have different etiquettes when it comes to conversations and may see an opportunity to jump in and take over when the other person takes a moment to pause.
Perhaps it is a result of a big and busy family, especially if you are the youngest in the family and talking over the top of others is the only way that you are able to be heard. This behaviour and way of conversing therefore becomes the norm, and transitions with the person through to adulthood.
It could also be due to neurodiversity, where a person does not mean to interrupt but rather their urge to speak or share their thoughts cannot be contained within them.
The reality is that irrespective of the reason for why people interrupt, we will all experience an interrupter at some stage of our lives, and the best skill that we can bring to the table is to respond with good grace and leave the other person able to preserve their dignity.
The passive-aggressive approach that I referred to earlier is probably not the best way to preserve or enhance a relationship. Instead, you could find ways to acknowledge their excitement or interest, while also ensuring that your voice is heard. Encouraging their input after you have finished talking or addressing the matter one on one with them to share how it makes you feel when they interrupt or talk over the top of you, may be another way to create a shift in the behaviour.
Having a real-life conversation is rarely scripted, well thought through or delivered in a way that hits the mark every time. Conversations can be messy, awkward, and filled with faux pas that can at times leave us walking away and wondering what just happened. The reality is that if we really want to improve the art of conversation, we need to practice listening – using the theory that we have two ears and one mouth for a reason – and not just focus on the words that we use.
And when the time is right to reclaim our voice, we have a strategy to respond to an interrupter with grace and in a way that leaves the other person feeling like they want to connect with us again in future.
Ultimately, mastering the art of conversation means balancing the act of hearing and being heard, creating a space where everyone feels valued and understood.
Please note: This website may contain references to, or feature images, videos, and voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who have passed away.
