Carers across Bellingen Shire are being invited to a free community lunch in Dorrigo on Thursday, 22 October, recognising their contribution to supporting family members, friends and loved ones.
The event, held as part of National Carers Week, aims to acknowledge the often unseen work of unpaid carers while providing an opportunity to connect with others and learn about available support services.
Bellingen Shire Mayor Steve Allan said many people might not identify as carers because supporting loved ones was simply part of their everyday lives.
“If you’re caring for a family member, friend or loved one, providing unpaid support to someone with everyday tasks, appointments, emotional support or other aspects of daily life, you may be a carer,” said Allan.
“If you know someone who regularly supports another person and could benefit from connecting with other carers and finding out about available support, bring them along. Caring for carers and taking time out from caring duties is incredibly important.”
The lunch will feature guest speakers Susan Murphy and Graeme Atkins, who will share their personal experiences of caring and living with dementia.
The couple, who have been together for 42 years, have spent decades raising awareness of dementia and advocating for unpaid carers.
Murphy was named NSW Caring Partner of the Year in 2011, while Mr Atkins received the Richard Taylor Memorial Award in 2020 for his contribution to global dementia advocacy.
Together, they have shared their experiences at more than 100 public events.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in a Rocks of Gratitude activity and access information about local support services.
The lunch is being organised in partnership with Bellingen Shire Council, Neighbourhood Centres of the Bellingen Shire, Carers NSW, Mission Australia and Community Transport.
The free event will be held at The Never Never Mind on Cudgery Street in Dorrigo from noon to 2pm on Thursday, 22 October.
All carers across Bellingen Shire, along with their family members and friends, are welcome to attend.
Registrations are required by Thursday, 15 October. To RSVP, contact Liz on 0494 815 603 or email dnc.coordinator@ncobs.org.au.
Community Transport may be available for those needing assistance getting to the event. For transport enquiries, call 1300 812 504.
Further information and bookings are available through the Bellingen Shire Council website.
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