White Cloud Boardies & Bubbles: A Coastal Affair for Mental Health
It’s a stunning March day at Tangalooma Island Resort, where the air is filled with laughter, live music, and the tantalizing aroma of delicious food – but it's not just a normal beach day at the resort... Today it’s the scene of a very special event — the White Cloud Foundation’s annual Tangalooma Boardies and Bubbles Lunch, hosted and sponsored by Tangalooma Island Resort, taking place in the magnificent Waterfront Pavilion, right on Tangalooma’s pristine beachfront.
Founded in 2011 by Professor Adam Scott, the White Cloud Foundation aims to change the way mental health services are delivered in Australia. A Queensland-based nonprofit, the White Cloud Foundation is dedicated to providing practical support and access to treatment for individuals grappling with depression and anxiety, geared at helping people in the early stages - when mental health first starts to decline, to prevent it from declining further and potentially leading to suicide. The Foundation offers a number of different programs, ranging from Meals for Mums; which aims to provide assistance to mothers with perinatal depression, the Tele-Mental Health Service; a free service offering evidence-based support for people experiencing changes to their mental health and wellbeing - and their most recent program; White Cloud Sport, which partners with major Sporting Associations across Queensland to provide mental health treatment and support to their members, athletes, players, administrators, families and other affiliates – also proudly sponsored by Tangalooma Island Resort.
The Boardies and Bubbles Lunch isn't just about the amazing food, including the famous tinnie full of seafood, or the stunning views across the Bay or even the fun banter between friends, but a gathering amongst like-minded guests, who come together to raise crucial funds for the White Cloud Foundation's vital services. And who better to host such an event than Australian cricketing legend, Andy Bichel, who even offered guests the chance to face his bowling prowess (for a price!)?
It’s a day of fun, sun and delicious food, with many choosing to take a quick dip in the ocean between courses and of course the questionable boardies certainly add an extra touch of entertainment! Luckily the ladies are all glammed up to keep it classy! The Tanga Cup Tug-of-War is, as always, a fiercely contested battle, with one team finally becoming the champions of the sand. But more than all that, it’s also about making a tangible difference in the lives of those struggling with mental health challenges. Through spirited live auctions and raffles, attendees generously contribute to ensuring that the different White Cloud programs can continue to provide much-needed support and early intervention programs for all those in need.
For Tangalooma Island Resort, the partnership with the White Cloud Foundation is more than just a partnership - it's a way of giving back. As part of a wider community sponsorship program, Tangalooma is deeply committed to supporting the local community and in this case, such critical mental health initiatives. As the sun set on another successful Boardies and Bubbles Lunch, the overwhelming feeling was one of gratitude—a poignant reminder that, even amidst the breath taking beauty of an island paradise, there's ample space for compassion and support for those who need it most.