Community & Business
15 October, 2025
Mental health conversations
MENTAL health awareness will be at the heart of a public campaign this month when local author and publisher Crystal Leonardi joins Mareeba Shire Councillor Amy Braes for an “In Conversation” event and morning tea at the Mareeba Library.
Julatten-based Ms Leonardi successfully published her seventh book Clarity earlier this year and will use this as a reference for her own journey through tough times.
“Clarity has a lot to do with trauma recovery distress, but also coming out the other side of that, so it really fits in beautifully with the mental health awareness topic,” she said.
“(The book) is very much a reflection of a really profound journey through my resilience and not only learning the limits of my resilience but being surprised at the power of overcoming trauma and how resilience can lead us into greater things.”
Ms Leonardi received the news no one wants to hear: her child had incurable cancer. It was during the Covid-19 pandemic, and the logistics of treatment and adjustment were both isolating and traumatic.
Ms Leonardi channelled the emotions and fears of that period into her first, best-selling book, Boy of Steel, where she shared her struggles with guilt and mental health challenges.
Fortunately, these days her son is “clinically stable”, although the regular checks in Brisbane will be a constant.
“For us his life is about keeping him safe first and foremost and allowing him to have a full life. So he goes to school, he’s got limitations obviously, because he has disabilities, but making sure he can have a really fulfilling and happy life no matter what that looks like to him.
“He can grow up just like our other children, you know, carefree, doing silly things, having fun, all that sort of thing for no other reason than that’s what kids do.”
From out of this trauma, Ms Leonard began writing in earnest and created the successful Bowerbird publishing business.
“Once the dust settled it happened within me … that yearning for wanting more out of life, which is not uncommon. I think it’s a very relatable story and it’s not anything new in that respect,” Ms Leonardi said.
She was thrilled to be asked to share her story with Cr Braes, with whom she has worked before at an International Women’s Day event.
“I love the way an interview can actually bring out the unexpected… that can be really engaging to the audience.”
For Cr Braes, the event is important because it creates a space to talk openly about topics that are often kept private.
“I am honoured to be in conversation with Crystal, a storyteller who has a unique, heartfelt way of connecting with people. Crystal shines a light on difficult times, sharing lessons that can help us all,” she said.
“In rural and regional areas like ours, we see the impacts of mental health on community wellbeing and resilience, and we know that the first conversation can make all the difference.
“Mental health challenges can be amplified by limited access to services, distance, and debilitating stigma. Financial pressures, social isolation, and the long-term effects of natural disasters, like TC Jasper, can also add to the strain.”
While the Mareeba shire had exceptional services, it was also important to engage in conversations.
“Crystal and I share the hope that people will leave with a deeper understanding of their own mental health and wellbeing, and that they are empowered to start their own conversations.”
Crystal Leonardi in conversation with Councillor Amy Braes – Clarity, will be held at the Mareeba Library from 10.30am, Friday 31 October.
A complimentary morning tea will be provided, proudly sponsored by The Hungry Pug.
Merchandise, giveaways, and books will be available at the event.
