16 Days of Activism Youth Event- Mental Health and Relationships Panel

Published on 28 November 2025

16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is a global campaign that aims to raise awareness of different forms of violence and encourage prevention. The 16 Days of Activism campaign runs from 25 November through to 10 December every year. Hindmarsh Shire Council launched 16 Days of Activism activities by hosting a youth event for local high-school students on Wednesday 26 November 2025.

Students in years 7-10 from all secondary schools were invited to participate in the day, which featured a panel of representatives from Headspace, Uniting Wimmera VicTas and the Orange Door. The panel was moderated by Hindmarsh Shire Youth Councillors, Lisa and Savior.

Approximately 80 students from Nhill College and Rainbow P-12 College attended the event.  Refreshments were enjoyed and students settled into floor cushions and beanbags to listen to the panel answer several student-submitted questions that focused on anxiety management techniques, friendships, helping a friend in need, and how to contact or utilise support services.

Following the panel, students enjoyed a range of activities, from lawn games through to Respectful Relationships interactive activities, led by Casey Hiscock, Secondary School Nurse at Nhill College. 

Several attendees shared their appreciation for the event by saying that the comfortable, casual environment made it easier to discuss potentially sensitive and heavy topics.

This event was made possible with funding from the 16 Days of Activism Grassroots Initiative 2025 and Respect Victoria. Bus charter was provided through the State Government’s Engage! funding.

Hindmarsh Shire Council is also hosting 16 Days of Activism Colour Run events in all major townships, find out more in our Media Release here.

For more information, please contact Stephanie Lynch, Free From Violence Project Officer, on (03) 5391 4444, or email slynch@hindmarsh.vic.gov.au. 

Monica Revell
Chief Executive Officer