Mindful gig with group

One of the region’s not-for-profit public groups is growing in scope, with applications closing on Monday for a project officer gig with Mindful Margaret River. The Shire of Augusta-Margaret River-based position would operate this year to lead MMR’s action plan on behalf of the local collective of social work and mental health professionals partnered with WA Government agencies as well as the local government. MMR and the Shire nabbed a $176,000 Lotterywest grant earlier this year for “the delivery of community-led initiatives that improve health and wellbeing”. MMR chair Stuart Hicks said the action plan would deliver a mental health awareness program, a health hub for professionals and ongoing collaboration between practitioners, sporting and community groups “to support connection and increased resilience”. “This is a unique opportunity for someone with a thorough understanding of the intricacies of mental health to really make a difference in our community,” Mr Hicks said. The position was embedded within the Shire to increase efficiency, but reported to MMR’s management board.