Highlands Wellbeing Forum

On Monday 4 March, over the course of three sessions, more than 400 Southern Highland residents gathered together at Bowral Memorial Hall for the inaugural Highlands Wellbeing Forum, an event generously supported by the Bowral District Children’s Foundation.

Over three sessions – one for students, one for educators and one for parents and carers, this event proved to be an enlightening and empowering event for all attendees. The keynote speaker, Dr. Kristy Goodwin, renowned for her expertise in digital wellbeing and parenting in the digital age, captivated the audience with her insights on how technology impacts our mental health and provided practical strategies for achieving a healthy balance in the digital world. Her presentation shed light on the importance of establishing boundaries and incorporating digital detoxes into our daily routines,
sparking meaningful discussions among students, parents, and educators alike.

Attendees at the forum left feeling inspired and equipped with newfound knowledge to prioritise their wellbeing in an increasingly digital society. Dr. Goodwin’s emphasis on the significance of mindfulness and intentional technology use resonated with many, prompting reflection on personal habits and habits. The forum served as a catalyst for ongoing conversations about fostering a healthy relationship with technology and promoting overall wellness among students and families.

One of the key aims of the Highlands Wellbeing Forum was to bring together students, educators and families from across the Southern Highlands community. The event facilitated collaboration and the exchange of ideas among educators, students, and parents from a wide range of schools across the Southern Highlands. This inter-school engagement not only enriched the discussions but also fostered a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose in promoting digital wellbeing within the broader community. Through collective participation and mutual support, the forum exemplified the power of collaboration in addressing common challenges and striving towards collective wellness goals. As a result, the impact of the event extends beyond individual schools, contributing to the development of a more connected and supportive Southern Highlands community focused on prioritising the wellbeing of our young people.

As we continue to navigate the complexities of the digital age, events like the Highlands Wellbeing Forum play a crucial role in promoting awareness and understanding of the impact of technology on our lives. Dr. Kristy Goodwin’s expertise and engaging presentation style left a lasting impression on attendees, inspiring them to make positive changes in their digital habits. The insights gained from Dr. Goodwin’s presentation will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the broader community of the Southern Highlands as individuals and families strive to prioritise mental health and balance in their daily lives.

This event would not have been possible without the generous support of the Bowral District Children’s Foundation. My co-organiser, Sarah Mangelsdorf, school counsellor at Chevalier College, and I would also like to sincerely thank Oxley College, Berida Hotel, Community Links Reframe, Chevalier College, Coles Bowral, our generous volunteers from schools across the Southern Highlands and, of course, all attendees. We look forward to seeing you at 2025’s Highlands Wellbeing Forum.

Mrs Alison Rasheed
Director of Curriculum P-6