Some of Western Australia’s leading chefs will headline the fifth annual Plating for a Purpose dinner next month, raising funds and awareness for mental health in the hospitality sector.
The event, organised by WA-based charity Healthy Mind Menu (HMM), aims to raise more than $100,000 to continue delivering targeted programs for hospitality workers across the state.
Mental health challenges in hospitality are widely viewed as some of the most severe of any industry. Research shows one in three hospitality workers experience high or very high levels of psychological distress – three times the national average. Burnout rates are higher than those reported in nursing, while rates of self-harm and suicide are also above many other industries.
“Healthy Mind Menu was created by chefs, industry leaders and mental health advocates because too many people in our industry were suffering in silence,” said Wayne Teo, Co-founder of HMM.
With more than 105,000 people employed in WA hospitality, HMM provides evidence-based training, resources and tools tailored to the industry, including leadership workshops, wellbeing programs, awareness campaigns and its Back of House, Front of Mind podcast.
“By supporting hospitality workers, HMM strengthens the wider community,” Teo said.
“Cafés, pubs, restaurants and bars aren’t just places to eat and drink – they are where people gather, connect and belong. A healthy hospitality industry means a healthier community.
“Plating for a Purpose is more than just a dining event – it’s a statement that mental health in hospitality matters, and that together we can make a real difference.”
This year’s dinner will bring together prominent Perth chefs including Brian Cole (Hearth Restaurant & Lounge), Blaze Young (Nieuw Ruin), Dario Pompucci (Royal Freshwater Bay Yacht Club), Marcello Segalina (IL FALCO Group), Sofika Boulton (Sonny’s Bar) and Todd Stuart (Twenty Seats).
Funds raised will go directly towards initiatives designed to help hospitality workers and employers manage stress, build resilience and foster healthier workplaces.
Plating for a Purpose will take place on 27 October at the Ritz-Carlton Perth, closing Mental Health Month with a night that combines food, community and advocacy.
If you’re currently in distress, there is support available at 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) and Beyond Blue.
The Healthy Mind Menu website also has a long list of the help that is available to anyone struggling with their mental health.