Businesses across Echuca-Moama have been hit hard by the pandemic, with many losing almost 12 months’ worth of income, but the mental toll of the crisis is one that will be felt for a long time yet.
Committee for Echuca Moama chief executive Deanne Armstrong said COVID-19 and the restrictions had been devastating for local businesses.
“And we don't fully know the impact it is going to have on people's mental health as well as their businesses,” she said.
“It's not always easy to have those discussions or to open up about what you are feeling and what you have been through, so we wanted to find a way to help into a position where they can start to talk.”
Committee for Echuca Moama and the Moama Bowling Club will get the ball rolling through sharing the experiences of others at the Let's Talk! Business Support event at the MBC on February 10.
“I wanted to provide the opportunity for businesses to come together and start the conversations,” Ms Armstrong said.
“We won't have all the answers on the night, but we will be able to help provide the guidance to get support."
The night will feature three guest speakers: AFL Hall of Famer Gary Buckenara, former AFL player and Love Me Love You Foundation founder Lance Picioane and mental health advocate Warren Davies, who is known as the Unbreakable Farmer.
Each guest will share their own personal stories of the battles and challenges throughout their lives.
Ms Armstrong said she hoped hearing the stories of others would help those impacted to start talking.
“Issues can impact anyone, be it in a small business or a large one, no-one is immune, and these speakers show that.
“This provides a networking avenue for our business community to bring people together and help them through the issues that have arisen from the pandemic.
“It's also an opportunity to discuss some strategies and where to access support going forward.”
Businesses can email ceo@c4em.com.au for the event information.
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