R U OK Convoy rolls into Clarence Campus
Published on: 01 Oct 2026
L-R: Jake Farris R U OK? Community Ambassador Manager, Dave Roberts CareSuper GM of Strategy, Insights and Corporate Affairs, Anna Leeson CareSuper Strategic Partnerships Specialist, Emma Rice TasTAFE Senior Manager Student Services, and Olivia Arkley, Training Facilitator LifeLine Tasmania.
On September 23, TasTAFE welcomed the R U OK? Conversation Convoy to Clarence Campus. The Conversation Convoy travels to regional communities around the country to raise awareness of mental health and help Australians understand the important role we all play in looking out for our friends, family and colleagues.
R U OK community ambassadors were onsite to assist TasTAFE staff and learners in learning how to recognise when someone may be struggling, how to start a conversation about mental health, and how to seek help for themselves – all in a relaxed atmosphere of a BBQ lunch.
Senior Manager Student Services Emma Rice explained the importance of events like the R U OK Conversation Convey to TasTAFE’s commitment to creating a supportive learning and working environment.
“Events like this remind us that mental health is everyone’s business. We all experience challenges at different times in our lives, and the simplest act of checking in with someone can make a meaningful difference,” Emma said.
With one in every two Tasmanians aged 16-85 experiencing a mental health condition at some time in their life (the highest prevalence in Australia), TasTAFE supports learners and staff by promoting a positive culture that supports both physical and psychosocial wellbeing, including the provision of student counselling services and access to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
Trained TasTAFE staff also provide support via the Mental Health First Aiders program. Identified by their multicoloured lanyards, they are available to listen without judgement, provide initial support and reassurance, and help connect people with professional support if needed.
“It is one of the ways we are encouraging early intervention and creating psychologically safe environments where people feel comfortable reaching out for help,” Emma said.
“Sometimes the most important thing we can do is start the conversation, listen, and let someone know they are not alone.”
If this story raises issues and you need immediate assistance, call Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14, Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636, or in an emergency, call Triple Zero (000).
