Barbeques Galore and Lifeline Australia are launching a new collaboration to turn the humble backyard barbie into an opportunity for life-saving conversations.
In 2020, 2,384 men took their own lives, representing around three-quarters of all lives lost to suicide. In spite of this disproportion, only one in four men say they would be likely to seek help from dedicated mental health services when they are doing it tough.
The partnership will focus on the role a barbeque can play in creating social unity and bringing people together to build genuine social connection and hold authentic conversations.
Two-thirds of Australians own a barbeque, making it the ideal place for Australian men to gather and talk openly about their mental health with their mates.
“Standing around the barbeque can be a safe space to talk, to listen and to understand,” said Angus McDonald, Barbeques Galore CEO. “It’s a place where you can feel safe to let down your guard and connect with those you trust and care about most. While a barbeque’s sizzle sounds in the background, it’s the perfect time to reach out and ask for help, confide or seek support.
“This partnership is a very special one as it encourages Australians to connect side-by-side. There is this ‘conversational safe-space’ that surrounds a barbeque, creating the perfect time and environment to really connect. The partnership with Lifeline allows us to join together in encouraging Aussies to ‘Take 10’ and come together.”
A safe place to open up
Colin Seery, CEO of Lifeline Australia, said that standing around the grill offers a great chance to connect, listen and support each other without fear of judgement or shame.
“This is all about helping people make that first step, which is often the hardest one,” he said. “All it takes is ten minutes to cook, ten minutes to chat, and ten seconds to call.
This partnership with Barbeques Galore is all about breaking down the stigma around asking for help – and that can be as simple as having a yarn over a snag.
“Meanwhile, Lifeline is here 24/7 for anyone who needs extra support, and we have phone, webchat and text crisis supporters there to make sure no-one has to face their darkest moments alone.”
