Wednesday, July 2023
Fun, learning and inspiration were on the agenda when our team gathered for our annual Life Ed Queensland state conference recently, at our new headquarters in Broadbeach.
This year’s theme encouraged everyone to inspire, share, learn and connect.
Educators from across Queensland joined the leadership team and other staff for an action-packed three days combining both professional and personal development.
We heard from experts representing a range of organisations – including alcohol and drug-use support service Dovetail, On Platinum ICT, Holistic Services Group, the eSafety Commissioner’s office and SAFE4KIDS. Board deputy chair Jack Ray whose father, the late Brian Ray founded the original Life Education Centre in 1987 along with fellow Gold Coast business leader Ron McMaster, shared his passion for the program and ongoing family legacy.
From mindfulness, meditation and fundraising milestones to best practice in all our program areas, and our future vision, we’ve all been left feeling truly replenished to continue our work with children in schools and communities across Queensland.
We also welcomed three young student captains from Norfolk Village State School and their families, who shared just what a significant impact the Life Ed program has had on them.
Emily Brown, Year 6, told our team how the recent Life Ed visit to her school taught her so much about the harms of vaping and cigarettes.
“The session taught kids all about the different chemicals that can be found in vapes and cigarettes and the dangers of becoming addicted to these unhealthy substances,” Emily said.
“It made me and my peers more aware of the risks when it comes to the habits that can be made around vaping and smoking.”
Year 6 student Jedd Blackmur said his sessions had taught him many things including the importance of a nutritious diet.
“When we eat fruit and vegetables, it helps us fight off germs and improve our immune system.
“If we treat our bodies with the good foods, we will be happier and healthier to enjoy life to the fullest.”
Year 6 student Wil Garland said the Life Ed program had taught him everything from avoiding the harms of smoking and vaping to how to navigate bullying, cyberbullying, respectful relationships and respecting yourself.
“I will definitely miss Healthy Harold and the Life Education staff when I go to high school next year,” Wil said.
“Life Ed has been an amazing experience and I would like to thank each and every one of you for having an impact on the way I now make decisions. I feel like, through your program, you have helped me to make smart choices to ensure I live a happy and healthy life.”
A huge thank you to everyone who attended – for your participation and your positive contribution throughout the three days.
