I’ve been to places I have never been before – Graham’s story

For long term Bowen local Graham, joining the local Clubhouse started with a simple decision: to stop facing everything alone. 

After a difficult year of health complications and growing isolation, he walked through the doors looking for support and found a welcoming community waiting for him. 

“I had to do something to basically save myself. That was what it was about,” said Graham. 

“I saw the signs on the building, which said mental health, and that’s basically where I needed to go. 

“I came in and gave it a shot and I’m still here. 

Since joining the Bowen Clubhouse, Graham said being around others and getting involved in activities has helped him reconnect with community and routine during a difficult period in his life 

“It just gets me away from home.” 

Clubhouse activities range from board games and group lunches to barbeques, outings and community trips. 

Recently, Graham travelled with the group to Townsville to watch the Cowboys take on the Sharks. 

Another outing took the group to visit local coffee growers in the region — somewhere Graham had never visited despite living in Bowen for more than two decades. 

“We play a lot of board games and we go away on trips and we have a barbeque or picnic on a Friday. 

“Being around people has made a positive impact. 

“I’ve lived here 25 years, and I’ve been to places I’ve never been to before.” 

Originally from Christchurch in New Zealand, Graham has spent much of his life travelling and working around the world. 

These days, he said he values the simple things most: connection, conversation and having somewhere to go where people understand each other. 

“I get on well with all of them here.” 

Graham also said selectability employees have helped connect him with additional supports in the community during his health journey. 

“The help the workers here got me with ‘My Aged Care’ and other bits and pieces has been a massive help.” 

Reflecting on his experience at the Clubhouse so far, Graham said mental health support can make a significant difference, especially for people who may be struggling alone. 

“Mental health is something that can cripple you as much as a physical thing, but the support is always there.” 

For Graham, simply walking through the doors of the Bowen Clubhouse became the beginning of something positive. 

And months later, he is still glad he took that first step.