Bega Valley Shire Council partnered with the first responder mental health organisation to put on free family activities on March 6, including arts and crafts, a jumping castle, free barbecue dinner and an outdoor cinema.

Steve and Linda Sass, and Alex Metcalfe from Tiny Zoo were also on hand to show off several of their reptile and amphibian friends for those not too squeamish to have a pat.

Fortem's community engagement coordinator, Hayley Reynolds, said social connection plays an incredibly important role in wellbeing, on an individual, family and community level.