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Arafmi Mental Health Carer Forum –
Cairns 2025

On Thursday 16 October 2025, Arafmi hosted their first-ever Mental Health Carers Forum in Cairns at the Shangri-La Hotel. Around 80 mental health carers took part, alongside 10 community organisations and government bodies hosting stalls that provided valuable opportunities to connect with services and resources.

This Mental Health Carer Forum was an inspirational and uplifting event, giving carers the chance to hear directly from leaders in the mental health system, connect with others who share similar experiences, and explore how to use their Lived-Experience to advocate for improved supports and services. The event was very well received, with participants sharing an abundance of positive feedback about the value of the discussions, connections and sense of community created on the day.

The day featured a full and engaging program, beginning with a Welcome, guest speaker introductions and connection activities, followed by a panel discussion with local supporters and opportunities to meet exhibitors over morning tea and lunch. The afternoon included a somatic movement session, a consultation activity with carers and a guided meditation before wrapping up with feedback, surveys and lucky door prizes. The program created a balanced mix of learning, sharing and relaxation for everyone involved.

Overview of the Day

Session 1
The day began with an Acknowledgement to Country, followed by a welcome from Emma Griffiths, Arafmi’s Senior Advisor-Policy and Advocacy.

The attendees were then guided through a ‘Getting to know you’ activity at their tables, with each table facilitated by an Arafmi Staff member.  

Arafmi’s CEO, Irene Clelland then welcomed all in attendance and those who had travelled some distance to be there.

Our guest speakers were then introduced; Ivan Frkovic, Queensland Mental Health Commissioner, Katrina Armstrong, Executive Officer, Mental Health Carers Australia, and Simon Katterl, CEO Of Mental Health Lived Experience Peak Queensland. After each providing a short introduction, Irene Clelland adjudicated a question and answer session between the attendees and our guest speakers.

Session 2

A panel and Q&A featured local supporters sharing their experiences:

  • Hon Emma McBride MP, Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, Assistant Minister for Rural and Regional Health
  • Ivan Frkovic, Queensland Mental Health Commissioner
  • De Backman-Hoyle, Mental Health Carers Australia
  • Irene Clelland, CEO

Session 3

The afternoon featured:

  • A Somatic movement activity, which is all about tuning into how your body feels as you move, rather than worrying about how it looks or trying to reach a fitness goal.
  • A carers consultation activity facilitated by Sue Goodwin, Arafmi’s Lived Experience Advocacy Team Lead
  • Concluding the day was  a guided meditation session

The Forum was a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of mental health carers and of the importance of creating spaces where their voices are heard, valued and supported.

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Arafmi Mental Health Carer Forum – Cairns 2025

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