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Sarina: One year on
It’s been a year since the loss by fire of our Sarina Mental Health Hub, so in recognition we’re reflecting on selectability’s progress in the region since then and paying tribute to the efforts of emergency services and personnel on the day.
In April 2023 a fire broke out and destroyed the former RSL building destroying the refurbished facility that was just weeks away from opening to the community.
After a strong community response, selectability has since continued regular operations across the Sarina region to connect to a range of mental wellbeing and suicide prevention support.
selectability Regional Coordinator Keri Webster, who is also an auxiliary firefighter for the region was among the first on the scene, heroically calming the blaze for 6 hours along with 33 other personnel.
“I remember I was put on fire watch along with others for a 24-hour period, It was definitely one of the biggest fires locally in a long time, fully engulfed by the time we arrived,” said Keri.
“Thankfully no one was injured, certainly a different job that day compared to what I do normally that is for sure.
“Before starting the RSL refurbishment we conducted a community survey and 93 per cent of respondents said there was a need for a dedicated facility in the region, so we were committed to finding a way to continue delivering services after the fire.”
In a stunning act of community embrace, selectability was provided a space at Mudth-Niyleta Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisation, to serve as a temporary Mental Health Hub.
“The community support has been incredible, which is why we have been committed to still running our programs while we work on long term solutions.”
“There is still a strong demand for services here, a lot of people experiencing social isolation or crisis, so it is important for us to find our most viable options to meet the demand for services.
“We still have a strong focus on service delivery, and we are still running group programs and outreach services weekly.”
The selectability team is continuing to review options to better support the future needs of the Sarina community.
If you would like to know more or keep up to date with our delivery of services in Sarina, you can find more information here
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selectability acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land on which we provide services and pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging. We acknowledge those with lived experience and those who support and partner with us to improve mental wellbeing and prevent suicide across regional Queensland.
