Stay Afloat Launches 50 Events in 50 Days to Strengthen Seafood Communities

 Seafood Industry Australia (SIA) is proud to announce the launch of “Community Resilience: 50 Events in 50 Days”, an initiative led by Stay Afloat Australia to further strengthen connections, wellbeing and support mental health across the seafood industry.

Stay Afloat is SIA’s national mental health program which works to empower seafood communities through industry-led initiatives that address mental health and wellbeing challenges. This campaign reflects the power of programs created ‘For Industry, By Industry’ and highlights the vital role community-driven solutions play in fostering resilience.

Running from 21 February 50 Events in 50 Days seafood community members will receive support from Stay Afloat to host events in their local areas, with up to . From BBQs and breakfasts to coffee catch-ups and guest speakers, the program encourages locally tailored activities that bring people together to celebrate their shared resilience.  Over 2,000 people are expected to connect and celebrate the power of local industry supporting eachother in wellbeing.

“In just over a year, our team has established supports and networks in over 50 seafood communities,” said Veronica Papacosta, CEO of Seafood Industry Australia. “This campaign enables each of those communities to come together locally, in support of each other, and to continue to create meaningful connections, conversations and ensure no one feels isolated or unsupported. ”

“Our seafood communities are our greatest strength,” said Jo Marshall, Stay Afloat Program Manager. “Through this campaign, we’re not only celebrating the impacts the program has already had, but also providing an opportunity to further build local networks that are essential for long-term wellbeing and resilience. Whether it’s a simple coffee catch-up or a larger gathering, every connection makes a difference.”

The Stay Afloat program has reached over 10,000 people, with Co-ordinators making over 350 local visits, and having over 800 wellbeing conversations.   The program has attracted 189 volunteer Trusted Advocates from over 70 communities who are trained in providing Mental Health First Aid and wellbeing support for their own industry at local level.