Hundreds of Tasmanian workers swapped their desks for team challenges today, taking part in an event designed to boost workplace mental health.
The Mind Games brought together 250 participants from 50 teams in Hobart on Friday, marking Tasmania’s biggest workplace wellbeing event.
Now in its fifth year, the initiative uses games and puzzles to help build the skills that protect mental health at work.
Founder Sherri Ring says the event is all about bringing joy and curiosity back into work environments.
“Because when we make space for fun, kindness and laughter, we make space for people to be human again,” she said.
“And that’s where the magic happens, in the moments of teamwork, silliness and shared purpose.”
Since its launch in 2019, the event has raised more than $300,000 for workplace mental health research at the Menzies Institute for Medical Research.
This year’s event featured ten new challenges focused on connection, creativity and communication, with the help of 70 volunteers.
Gold sponsor Hazell Brothers Group has backed the Mind Games since the beginning.
Managing Director Geoffrey Hazell says it’s helped normalise mental health conversations in his construction business.
“Those discussions have started here and then work back into our workforce,” he said.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff officially launched the 2025 event, highlighting the importance of mentally healthy workplaces.
“Mentally healthy workplaces are vital, not just for the wellbeing of individuals, but for more productive organisations and healthier communities,” he said.
He also shared the story behind his newest tattoo of a flannel flower, the national symbol for mental health awareness.
“Its soft petals and enduring nature reflect the strength and sensitivity needed to support mental wellbeing,” he said.
“The flannel flower also thrives in harsh climates and rugged terrain, symbolising hope, endurance and the ability to flourish even in adversity.”
“Like this flower, I firmly believe that with the right support systems in place, every individual has the capacity to build resilience and adapt to life’s challenges and changes.”
Ring said the event shows prevention “doesn’t have to be serious to be powerful”.
“When we connect people through play, we change how they see each other. And that’s where culture, safety and wellbeing really start,” she said.
