Wallerawang hosted it's first Walk 'n' Talk for Life event on a very cold Saturday, July 13 to tie in with NAIDOC week celebrations.
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Residents braved the cold weather to talk about the importance of mental health within the Indigenous community.
Organiser Leanne Walding said holding the event during NAIDOC week symbolised the community's acknowledgement of the Wiradjuri people.
"This walk gives us the opportunity to yangagagi yayalanha murun, meaning walk 'n' talk for life," she said.
Rick Slaven opened up the day with a welcome to country before James Williams performed a traditional smoking ceremony.
Uncle Bob Suttor entertained crowds with a stunning performance on his didgeridoo.
Stephen Ainsworth gave a riveting speech about hope and connecting with one another.
"This is bigger than being black or white, we are all one mob who lives on this planet...the opposite of despair is hope and events like this help people come together," he said.
Councillors Cassandra Coleman and Joe Smith attended the event.
"It was very moving and a beautiful way the wider community could acknowledge our local first peoples, the Wiradjuri people," Cr Coleman said.
"Congratulations to Leanne Walding and the group of volunteers that ensured the day ran smoothly."
One of the guest speakers, 2019 Lithgow Showgirl and local journalist Ciara Bastow spoke about her experience dealing with anxiety during her time at University.
Ms Bastow said it was important to speak out and seek help, despite how hard that might be.
"When I was going through some of my most difficult times I didn't speak out because I was scared," she said.
"But people's kindness is what got me through, the smallest compliment such as 'I like your top' would make my day.
"So just remember to be kind to one another because you never know what someone else is going through."
Cr Coleman said Ms Bastow's speech resonated with her.
"Having daughters in High School who are fast becoming women, Ciara Bastow's speech was very moving and definitely resonated with me," she said.
"I am very proud to be part of the current Council that advocated so strongly for federal funding that delivered the Headspace service to Lithgow."