Barbeques Galore has been side by side with Australians in helping to create the great Aussie BBQ experience for 45 years, celebrating the iconic barbeque and the role it plays in creating social unity and bringing people together to build genuine social connection and hold authentic conversations.
Two-thirds of Australians own a barbeque, making it the ideal centrepiece for Australian men to gather around side-to-side and talk openly about their mental health with their mates.
Angus McDonald, Barbeques Galore CEO, said that the barbeque makes a great setting to check in with each other and have meaningful conversations.
“Standing around the barbeque can be a safe space to talk, to listen and to understand. It is a place where you can feel safe to let down your guard and connect with those you trust and care about most. While a barbeque’s sizzle sounds in the background, it’s the perfect time to reach out and ask for help, confide or seek support,” said Mr McDonald.
“This partnership is a very special one as it encourages Australians to connect side-by-side. There is this ‘conversational safe-space’ that surrounds a barbeque, creating the perfect time and environment to really connect. The partnership with Lifeline allows us to join together in encouraging Aussies to ‘Take 10’ and come together.”
Colin Seery, Lifeline Australia CEO, said that standing around the grill offers a great chance to connect, listen and support each other without fear of judgement or shame.
“This is all about helping people make that first step, which is often the hardest one. All it takes is ten minutes to cook, ten minutes to chat, and ten seconds to call.”
“This partnership with Barbeques Galore is all about breaking down the stigma around asking for help – and that can be as simple as having a yarn over a snag.”