AT THE surface a community event in Wattle Hill's Gossamer Park this week looked like fun and games, but it was much more than that.
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As well as fun activities for children and their families, there was something very important bubbling underneath.
Titled "Haircuts Connecting Community", the event was a NSW government initiative, with special guest Brian Dowd aka "the Walkabout Barber" giving more than just free stylish cuts on the day.
Mr Dowd is one of the most sought after Indigenous trauma and recovery specialists in Australia with over 16 years experience in the social, emotional and well-being space.
He views the barber chair as being a safe space for children and adults alike where they can chat to him about any issues they may be feeling or experiencing.
On top of that, his haircuts have the power to make people walk away feeling a million bucks.
"To be able to bring our mobile barber trailer out to rural communities is amazing, but it is more than that ... it's a mobile healing space," Mr Dowd said.
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"I do suicide prevention work, trauma and recovery work once we get out into communities and provide people with tools to deal with their own traumas and move forward.
"We're here to help."
As well as Mr Dowd being at the event there were also several service providers attending, helping residents with issues such as debt and back-to-school supplies for children.
The idea was to bring the community together to be part of these important conversations and realise they are not alone if they are struggling.
"Helping and healing is the most powerful thing," Mr Dowd said.
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