THE Australian Red Cross is launching Tune In & Tune Up - a five-part fortnightly series of free Drought and Wellbeing Webinars to explore how to maintain community wellbeing through drought.
Starting on Wednesday, June 17, and continuing every two weeks, the webinars will host speakers with expertise in psychology, wellbeing, climate, rural social issues, gender and disasters, children's mental health and agribusiness.
The speakers will share their insights and answer questions, so drought-affected Australians can better support their communities, themselves and their loved ones in these tough times.
"Over the past few years, Australia has experienced some of its driest periods on record," Australian Red Cross Drought Resilience Program national coordinator Alex Tanfield said.
"Drought is becoming increasingly prolonged and protracted, impacting many communities over the long term.
"We recognise that people who have been living through dry times know what they need, and how best to manage their wellbeing. This webinar series is part of a broader program that offers communities tools and support to do just that."
Each webinar is limited to 500 participants, so Ms Tanfield encouraged people to register early.
"Recordings will also be available on the Australian Red Cross Drought Program webpage after each webinar," she said.
SCHEDULE
- 10-11am Wednesday 17 June
Maintaining wellbeing through drought and prolonged stress
Speaker: Dr David Younger
- 10-11am Wednesday 1 July
The drought cycle; adaptation and strengthening resilience
Speakers: Dr Jacki Schirmer and Dr David Younger
- 10-11.15am Wednesday 15 July
Wellbeing after the rains
Speakers: Dr Lynette Bettio, Dr Jacki Schirmer and Dr Kate Gunn
- 10-11.15am Wednesday 29 July
Family wellbeing in the face of ongoing stress
Speakers: Dr Margaret Alston, Stephanie Schmidt and Dr Margaret Nixon
- 10-11.15am Wednesday 12 August
Preparing for tough times
Speakers: Dr Jacki Schirmer, Dr Mel Taylor and Shannon McCormack
- Details: redcross.org.au