Ulladulla mental health organisations, Richmond PRA and the Schizophrenia Fellowship, have teamed up to present Make a Noise, a free festival to be held at the Dunn Lewis Centre from 6pm on October 10.

As well as live music by local bands, the Anxious Clowns and Quite Like Pete plus a variety of solo performers, the festival will showcase personal stories of hope and recovery and offer interactive activities such as the Countdown to end stigma and the Tree of Hope.

Richmond PRA manager Linda Gilroy is encouraging people from all walks of the community to “be loud” during the Countdown at 8pm to help raise awareness of mental health and to challenge the stigma surrounding it.

“Mental illness isn’t something that affects a handful of people,” she said, “it’s one of the biggest health and well-being matters we face as a community.”

“One in five people will have a lived mental health experience during any 12-month period.

“An important message is that people with lived experiences of mental illness often move on to lead meaningful and fulfilling lives, providing they get the right services and support at the right time.”

She said the event was an opportunity to showcase the services available in the region.

Clients from the Schizophrenia Fellowship’s Sunflower House will perform and join in the festival activities.

Sunflower House is a day-to-day living service and personal helpers and mentors service that assists people with their recovery and pre-employment options.

People are welcome to go along and join in by dressing loud, being loud or simply relaxing and enjoying the festivities and free entertainment on offer.

As the event is being held during Mental Health Month, everyone is encouraged to write a message on the Tree of Hope and learn ways to be involved in community activities.

“A vibe of optimism and pride can be found at this event each year,” Linda added.

Food and discounted ten pin bowling will also be available at the event.