Byron Youth Theatre (BYT) will premiere its powerful new original production, Grow Up!, at The Drill Hall Theatre, Mullumbimby this October.
The production explores the challenges young people face when leaving school – whether exiting early or completing Year 12 and stepping into adult life. Developed through interviews with young people, local services, and educational organisations, Grow Up! offers an authentic portrayal of this important transition.
School shows will take place on 14 and 15 October, with two evening community performances on 16 and 17 October at 7pm. Tickets are available via the Drill Hall Theatre website or Humanitix.
Since 2010, BYT has produced 15 original productions tackling issues such as mental health, bullying, family violence, racism, ecological anxiety, and consent. Their work has reached more than 8,000 people and been recognised locally, nationally, and internationally, and received a 2020 award from the Mental Health Association of NSW.
‘With Grow Up! we wanted to open an honest conversation about the realities of leaving school,’ said Lisa Apostolides, Director of BYT. ‘By bringing young people and service providers together, we hope to support a smoother, less stressful transition into adulthood.’
This new work has been funded by Rotary Byron Bay, Wayahead Mental Health Association of NSW, and a generous community donor.
Mental Health Month
It’s Mental Health Month and the theme is ‘Taking Steps on Your Wellbeing Journey’.
Wayahead CEO Sharon Grocott said this year, the focus is on practical action and building individual resilience, and strengthening wellbeing through effective strategies.
‘Mental Health Month is about more than awareness – it’s about empowering people to take meaningful action in their wellbeing journey. We recognise that everyone’s path is different, and whether you’re taking your first step or navigating a prolonged challenging period, we’re here to support every part of that journey’.
‘We want every Australian to feel supported in taking their next step, whatever that looks like for them. By combining evidence-based approaches with real understanding of how challenging these journeys can be, we’re creating support that truly meets people where they are.
‘A key focus this year is normalising help-seeking behaviours and creating environments where people feel comfortable reaching out for support.
‘This initiative recognises that setbacks are a natural part of any wellbeing journey and can ultimately lead to greater compassion and personal strength, and help to reduce shame and self-judgment,’ Ms Grocott said.
‘This year’s ambassadors include celebrity food personality Julie Goodwin, mental health advocate Matty Mills, actress Sam Frost and motivational speaker Giancarlo De Vera (Chief Executive Officer of BEING) who will share their own wellbeing journeys and encourage public participation throughout the month.
Julie Goodwin emphasised the importance of small, consistent actions: ‘Starting down the road towards wellbeing can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be huge or complicated. Take a small, manageable action to begin with, like connecting with a friend or going outside. It gets easier with time, and every step counts.’
‘Throughout October, Mental Health Month 2025 will feature a range of activities, workshops, and resources designed to help individuals identify and implement their own wellbeing steps. Community organisations, workplaces, schools and healthcare providers are encouraged to participate by hosting events and sharing resources aligned with the campaign theme.
Digital resources include a practical guide to support people on their wellbeing journey.
For more information about Mental Health Month 2025 and available resources, visit wayahead.org.au/
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