“Marcia, Marcia, Marcia” …storm stress lingers
The winds might have stopped months ago but the emotional damage caused by Tropical Cyclone Marcia is still being felt by the people of Rockhampton.
Weather Forecaster Mike Griffin said Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can affect survivors of extreme weather events and the sharing of experiences can assist the healing process.
Mr Griffin will be sharing stories about extreme weather events and their mental and physical impacts, including the Cyclone Marcia and the current drought gripping Queensland, when he speaks at the annual Breakfast at the Lagoon Event at 7.30am on 9 May 2015 in Rockhampton.
“There were around 350 homes destroyed in the Rockhampton/Yeppoon region and another 600 were severely damaged. This widespread destruction can be traumatic to witness,” Mr Griffin said.
“I am aware of people having anxiety attacks at storm warnings and hiding under desks or beds when thunder storms are happening as the result of witnessing major cyclones such as Yasi, Oswald and Marcia.”
“I will also be open to questions regarding the drought in Western Queensland.”
Breakfast at the Lagoon is an annual community event run by the Friends of Shalom to raise funds for enhancing facilities, recreational amenities and residents’ needs at Carinity Aged Care – Shalom.
Carinity Aged Care – Shalom Site Coordinator Graham Harvey said over 200 people attended the event last year.
“The event has been run successfully for over fifteen years and we are hoping to attract visitors to the area as well as locals,” Mr Harvey said.
“The lagoon is a tranquil and peaceful place and has a range of native wildlife.”
“Birds Capricornia will have a telescope set up for close viewing and assist with identifying species in the area.”
EVENT DETAILS
When: Saturday 9 May 2015
Where: Carinity Lifestyle – Shalom, 121 Maloney Street, North Rockhampton.
Time: 7.30am
Cost: Breakfast is $7.00 for adults and $5.00 for children (13 years and under).
RSVP BY Thursday May 7.
Event Enquiries and RSVP:
Shalom Admin: 4923 9500
After Hours: Ph: 4927 9019 or 4923 7532
Email: graham.harvey@carinity.org.au
Media Contact:
Emma Sugget, Communications Officer
Ph: (07) 3550 3769 / 0409 865 930
Email: emma.sugget@carinity.org.au
