Some 85,000 books across more than 80 genres will be for sale at the Lifeline South Coast Big Book Fair, which has a new “sensory hour” on the Saturday for shoppers looking for a calmer book browsing experience. Photo: Lifeline South Coast.
Lifeline South Coast is making space for book lovers who prefer a little peace with their page-turning at this year’s Big Book Fair, with the introduction of a new “sensory hour”.
Returning to Illawarra Sports Stadium in Berkeley from Thursday 20 to Sunday 23 March, the Lifeline South Coast Big Book Fair invites book enthusiasts and collectors to browse an incredible 85,000 preloved and donated books spanning over 80 genres, including fiction, non-fiction, children’s books, biographies and much more.
The newly launched sensory hour, which takes place from 4 to 5 pm on the Saturday, is designed to create a quieter, calmer environment for attendees who may benefit from a less stimulating experience.
“We want to ensure we’re reaching as many members of the community as possible, ensuring everyone has the chance to support the lifesaving works we do,” Lifeline South Coast’s Courtney Moore says. “It’s all about inclusivity.”
While everyone is welcome to attend the sensory hour, Courtney says Lifeline South Coast has put evidence-based practices into place to create an environment more welcoming for people with sensory needs.
This includes hitting pause on additional noise such as music and PA announcements and educating volunteers on ways to be helpful while reducing direct engagement.
“Providing an inclusive and supportive atmosphere is a priority for us,” Lifeline South Coast CEO Renee Green says. “We hope the sensory hour will make the event more accessible to a wider range of community members, allowing everyone to take part in this special occasion.”
The bi-annual book fair is more than just a book sale – it is a key fundraising initiative for Lifeline South Coast, with all proceeds going directly toward funding the organisation’s crisis support services, suicide prevention programs and mental health initiatives.
By participating, patrons help Lifeline South Coast continue providing essential support to individuals facing mental health challenges directly in the South Coast.
It’s a win-win, with books to suit all tastes at bargain prices.
“Thanks to the amazing generosity of our community, we have received an outstanding collection of books and our volunteers have been working hard to prepare for a truly exceptional event … It’s a wonderful opportunity for book lovers to find great reads and contribute to a lifesaving, local cause,” Renee says.
“Every dollar raised at the book fair stays within the South Coast, enabling us to provide immediate support to those in need. Your involvement can truly change lives within your community.”
The Lifeline South Coast Big Book Fair takes place at Illawarra Sports Stadium in Berkeley kicking off with a special opening night on Thursday, 20 March from 5 to 9 pm, granting early access for a $10 donation. General hours are by gold coin donation from 9 am to 5 pm on Friday 21 and Saturday 22 March, and Sunday 23 March from 9 am to 4 pm.
If you or someone you know is struggling, Lifeline is here to help. For crisis support, call Lifeline anytime on 13 11 14.
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