WHO IS THE BANKSIA PROJECT?
Focused on early intervention in mental health, The Banksia Project works together with mental health professionals, industry leaders and professional bodies across Australia to create best practices and practical solutions to drive community support, increase self-awareness, encourage positive lifestyle choices, and facilitate ongoing support groups.
Our two key programs include our Growth Rooms – supportive mental health community networks and our Garden Rooms – quarterly events which invite the public to hear from respected profiles and leaders on a range of different mental health topics.
All of The Banksia Project’s programs are supported by mental health professionals to ensure they are safe and effective.
HOW WE BEGAN
The Banksia Project began in November 2015 as a small committee of skilled volunteers who shared a belief that the answer to combating increasing mental illness and suicide was through prevention.
They shared the belief that empowering people with evidence based practical information, community support and increased self awareness would allow for stronger and more informed decision making.
The Banksia flower was chosen because of its symbolism and story. The Banksia is native to Australia with our Indigenous Australians using this flower’s sweet nectar for essential energy to survive. The Banksia has also withstood the ravages of bushfires, re-growing and thriving on scorched earth.
BRYAN COLEMAN, FOUNDER
THE TEAM
Jack Jones
KAREN MATTHEWS
ALANA SUDALE
TONY HOWE
THE BANKSIA BOARD
PAUL HARAPIN
CHAIRMAN
ADAM BLATCH
CO SECRETARY
RUTH CALLAGHAN
NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
EDDIE MOORE
NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
MARIE-CLARE ELDER
NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
MICHAEL REEDE
NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
SEAN CUNIAL
NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
DAVID BRUCE
TREASURER
PROF. SIMON WILCOCK
NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
