Celebrating community with the opening of headspace Manjimup

The official opening of headspace Manjimup on Thursday 5 November 2026 was a wonderful celebration of community, and what can be achieved with a shared vision and a commitment to establishing a dedicated, local mental health service for young people living in the Warren-Blackwood region. 

More than 50 people including school students, community leaders, and sector partners came together to hear heartfelt speeches about how the centre came about and what it will mean to young people living in Manjimup and surrounding towns. Hosted by Sam, a member of headspace Manjimup’s Advisory Group (hMAG), the formalities were followed by tours of the centre, afternoon tea, and a beautiful performance by musician and hMAG member, Montannah.  

“Young people in the South West of WA often experience significant barriers to accessing mental health services, including having to travel long distances for appointments, and the limited availability of services,” said Derry Simpson, Youth Focus CEO, lead agency of headspace Manjimup. 

“headspace Manjimup will ensure they can access support, right here in their own community. 

“By working together with existing youth support services in Manjimup and surrounds including Blackwood Youth Action, local community partners and schools, and young people and their families, headspace Manjimup will deliver truly meaningful, integrated and accessible support for young people in the region.  

“Whether for a one-off chat, a medical appointment, exploring work and study options, or a place to connect, we are committed to providing a safe and welcoming space where young people can get the help they need, when they need it.”

The centre will provide ample space to bring together a broad range of supports with our community partners for the mental health of young people as part of the headpsace centre services.

headspace Manjimup is supported by a Consortium, the headspace Manjimup Advisory Group (hMAG), and the Family and Friends Group, to ensure our work in the region continues to be guided by the community. Chaired by local GP Dr Sarah Youngson, the Consortium includes a diverse range of sector and community partners. The inaugural hMAG is being led by an incredible group of young people who will ensure youth voices are part of all that we do. 

These groups, together with the work of the headspace Manjimup team and our partner organisation Blackwood Youth Action, will be integral to delivering services throughout the region. 

headspace Manjimup was established with support from the WA Primary Health Alliance and headspace National, and is supported by funding from the Australian Government under the PHN Program and commissioned by WA Primary Health Alliance.