Photo: Hannah Walsh
Alcohol-free events for young adults
Young adults in Queensland are taking matters into their own hands when it comes to providing alcohol-free events that foster stronger friendships and better mental health.
From sunrise to sunset, opportunities are being created for young people to make meaningful connections during the working week.
In Mackay, 23-year-old Brianna Underhill was sick of feeling like she had to live in a city to join such an event.
She took inspiration from a group on the Gold Coast, which meets once a week at sunrise for an ocean swim and coffee.
“Mackay needed something people can do throughout the week,” Ms Underhill said.
“This is the kind of environment that promotes healthy living and a healthy mind and body.
“Everyone always promotes things on the weekend. We needed a simple and effective program that boosted people’s mid-weeks and connected them to others.”
She calls it “Rise and Mind,” and it’s something TJ Kerr now goes to most Wednesday mornings.
“It’s really hard to make friends outside of drinking …, especially as a young adult,” she said.
Photo: Toby Sulendra
Key points:
- Swapping booze for the beach is trending among young Queenslanders
- Young adults are creating opportunities for themselves to make meaningful connections during the working week
- Brianna Underhill has taken inspiration from a Gold Coast group, which meets once a week at sunrise for an ocean swim and coffee
“It’s really good to have someone that you haven’t met through drinking or drugs.”
Ms Kerr said she had always felt like she could only look forward to the weekend.
“I love coming to Wednesdays … you’re surrounded by so many people with good vibes,” she said.
“We’re not afraid to ask anyone how their week is going and for someone to say well, kind of shit actually … it’s like therapy.”
Source
Hannah Walsh
ABC News
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