Sit Down With Sam

When I first moved to Mackay, I was fortunate in that I knew a handful of people and was able to make new friends through them relatively quickly.

Still, I looked for opportunities through social sport, work and attending different events throughout the community, and will now see someone I know or have previously met almost every time I leave the house.

I’ve learnt a lot about making new friends in your mid-20s and still have a lot to learn but one thing I’m sure many can agree on is that it’s not easy.

I recently joined a group of people who meet at Harbour Beach every Wednesday morning for a swim before heading to a nearby café for a coffee.

The idea is to create a space for people to meet and connect in a wholesome and authentic way – check out “Rise and Mind” on Instagram.

I’m discovering more and more avenues for connecting with like-minded people in our community like this every day.

On page 13, I chat with Zephyr and Bradley from Mackay Community Garden where connection and camaraderie are at the heart of what they do.

They aim to create a welcoming space where anyone can come to meet new people, learn about gardening and permaculture and get involved in their community.

On page 3, Orange Sky has been providing conversation, connection and friendship to the Mackay region for five years under the guise of a charity that only washes clothes.

It’s organisations and groups like these that go out of their way to connect like-minded people and provide a space to talk, listen and meet new people.

If you’re feeling lonely or out of touch with your community, I urge you to consider finding a group that interests you, whether that be a sporting club, special interest group or volunteer organisation – maybe I’ll see you there.

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