What’s happening?
The 2025 R U OK? Conversation Convoy is making a two-day stop in Rockhampton this week. The initiative includes two free public events to help locals feel more confident in starting conversations that could change a life.
Tomorrow, Thursday 3 April, the Convoy joins forces with Queensland Rail for Rail R U OK? Day at Rockhampton Station. Locals can enjoy a free BBQ breakfast, hear speeches, and pick up practical tools to support mental health conversations.
Then on Friday 4 April, the Convoy joins Rockynats Car & Bike Show. The R U OK? caravan will offer free resources from 7:00 am to 10:00 am. Later that day, the R U OK? vehicle will proudly lead the Rockynats Street Parade from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm.
Why it matters
R U OK? CEO Katherine Newton said, “The Conversation Convoy is a powerful way to remind people that you don’t need to be an expert to support someone doing it tough.”
“Trust your gut, ask the question, listen with an open mind, and let them know you care,” she said.
These events aim to inspire connection and show how a simple conversation can change a life.
Local Impact
Both events offer a chance for Rockhampton residents to gather over food and cars—two local passions—and take home life-changing knowledge. R U OK? Community Director Lachlan Searle said, “We’re honoured to be part of Rockynats and connect with the Rockhampton community in such a meaningful setting.”
By the numbers
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Nearly 8 Australians die every day by suicide, and many more are impacted.
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1 in 5 Australians experience symptoms of mental illness each year.
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R U OK?’s message has reached over 10 million Australians since its inception in 2009.
Zoom In
The Rail R U OK? Day event runs Thursday from 6:45 am to 7:30 am at the Rockhampton Station Delivery Dock. Expect speeches at 7:00 am, BBQ breakfast, and resources designed especially for Queensland Rail staff.
Zoom Out
This visit is part of the broader R U OK? Conversation Convoy—a national tour helping communities across Australia learn how to start meaningful mental health conversations in everyday moments.
What to look for next?
Keep an eye out as the Conversation Convoy continues its journey across Australia. More events are planned in regional centres throughout April, aiming to bring life-saving conversations to the forefront, one stop at a time.
