Walk ‘N’ Talk Sessions Bring Community Warmth 

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Written By Patricia Higgins

Parent to Parent (P2P) Moreton Bay’s Walk ‘N’ Talk sessions are based on the idea that leisurely strolls by the bay may assist with wellness, particularly in offering a welcoming space for peer-led connection for people with disability, their supporters and families.  

Followed by a beverage at The Oasis on the Esplanade Cafe, the programs run every Tuesday, meeting at the entrance of Redcliffe Jetty near the Information Centre.  

Project coordinator for Moreton Bay City community engagement, Tahlia Lovell (affectionately known as Tee), said the sense of meaning derived from Walk ‘N’ Talk was straightforward yet powerful.  

“We share experiences, swap knowledge, and support each other to feel valued and part of the community, and the most rewarding part is seeing people who might otherwise feel isolated discover new friendships, routines, and a sense of confidence,” Tee said.

Peer Support, Coffee, and Connections That Last

According to Tee, Walk ‘N’ Talk was also born of the success of P2P’s Wellbeing Day at the Bay (held in 2024), where organisers “saw there was a huge appetite for a regular, simple activity that could keep that same energy going.” 

In her role, Tee said that she supports Shaun, the peer leader and facilitator of Walk ‘n Talk, who also works as a peer facilitator for P2P Qld.  

“Shaun is an athlete and marathon runner who also lives with intellectual disability, and he was keen to help start a peer group,” Tee said.  

“Together, we encourage people to come along, meet others, and build genuine social connections.” 

Another essential component of the program, according to Tee, is the ability for participants to “keep conversations going, share stories and feel part of something” by meeting afterwards at The Oasis on the Esplanade.  

“The cafe is really welcoming and accessible for our group, plus it has a beautiful view of the water,” she said.  

Regarding the entire sessions, Tee said that they were completely free, with bookings unnecessary, and that “we even shout the coffee, offering that small, unexpected gesture that really sparks happiness.”  

To view more about Walk ‘N’ Talk and similar initiatives, visit P2P Moreton Bay on Facebook. For direct enquiries, contact Tee via tee.lovell@p2pqld.org.au or call/text 0409 606 739.  

P2P Walk ‘N’ Talk sessions 

  • Every Tuesday, 9am  
  • Meeting at the entrance of the Jetty (near the Information Centre)
  • 139 Redcliffe Parade, Redcliffe.

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