MIND AND STRENGTH SUPPORT

Almost 950,000 people working in Australia are employed in the hospitality industry.

Words by Lesleigh Luiten

psychological claims in 2005, they varied anywhere between a couple of hundred dollars to a couple of thousand dollars, whereas in 2023 claims can exceed $100,000. These claims increase venue insurance; if staff are making more workplace injury claims from a psychological aspect. I believe a lot of staff are now becoming more aware of their rights as employees. I think previously in hospitality, some venues took advantage of staff.”

Spargo outlined the direct benefits businesses see when they begin to prioritise mental health within the industry: “a reduced risk of workplace psychological claims, a happier workforce, safer work environment, a more supportive work environment, and increased retention with staff.”

MASS provides the following support to venues around Melbourne to combat these issues. “We link them in with appropriate mental health support and services. Where I can I will try to link them in with options which can save them money. That is one of the biggest barriers; the financial aspect of engaging support and services. Link them with services where you don’t have a huge waitlist.

“I know that for example there is some trouble with accessing psychologists within a timely manner. We also educate business owners and managers on how staff can engage in a mental health care plan. And discuss how to reduce the psychological risks within their workplaces and create a safe work environment.”

To learn more about Mind and Strength Support visit their website, and follow them on Facebook or Instagram. And if you’re in Melbourne keep an eye out for MASS “help is on the other side” coasters at a hospitality venue near you.

To book a no-cost, no-obligation discussion of the challenges in your workplace or community email bookings@mindandstrengthsupport.com.au. hese articles were made in partnership with MASS.

Three decades and 10 albums is no small feat for a band. In the case of Jimmy Eat World, 2023 marks their 30th year of consistent touring, releases, and as their many fans across the globe would attest to, quality tunes every step of the way.

During this milestone year, the group returns to Melbourne in March for two massive shows at Rod Laver Arena in support of the recently reunited My Chemical Romance. We spoke about all of this to bassist Rick Burch from his Hobart home, where he and his wife have an apartment.

We begin by trying to pinpoint the 30th birthday precisely, for which there is some debate; “We’re choosing to mark the beginning of the band as our initial gathering to jam together in Zach’s garage, but there was some discussion over that jam or the first gig, which is the beginning of the band? Because before the official gig, you are just some dudes in a garage.”

I explain that smaller bands probably need to think about their official first gig, but when you are Jimmy fucking Eat World, the first moment you shared a jam room together seems significant and worthy of an anniversary, to which Rick laughs and agrees; it has been decided.