Gladstone navigating the labyrinth of mental health

Whilst similar to a maze, a labyrinth usually has only one entrance which doubles as the exit and isn't designed as difficult to navigate.

The Macleay Valley Arts Council, in conjunction with local businesses including Steam & Cedar and Coastline are working together to help sell 2000 bricks made from recycled milk bottles in construction of the labyrinth.

Manager of Steam & Cedar, Daniel MacDonald, is hoping the idea can create a space for the community to come together and unite.

"The purpose of the project will be the build resilience in the community and re-enforce that sense of connection to help overcome mental health challenges," he told the Argus.

"The structure will be there for a week and provide a talking point for the community."

The bricks that will form the walls of the labyrinth are made in Port Macquarie by Doppio or Nothing, who run a recycling program that sees the milk bottles from local cafes collected and recycled into these bricks.

The inspiration for the project kicked off last month.

"We used the bricks to build a garden last month and found it fun - almost like playing lego," Mr MacDonald said.

"From there we had the inspiration for something bigger!"

Mr MacDonald said some people have bought bricks and will use them for their own garden in the future whilst others have chosen to donate them to local community groups.

He said he hopes this will plant the seed for future events.

Building of the labyrinth will take place in the Gladstone Memorial Park and kicks off at 10am this Saturday with a BBQ breakfast available and coffee flowing.

Visitors can walk the mind-maze and take time to reflect, meditate, or simply clear their mind.

The following Saturday, a Mental Health Market will start from 5:30 with an outdoor cinema screening of Bowie's 90s classic, The Labyrinth from 8pm. Entry is by donation.

Proceeds from the event will go towards the Macleay Valley Arts Council, Life Education Australia, and the Movember Foundation.

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