Greater Shepparton’s Robert McLean is inviting the community to participate in a unique event called the Death Café on Saturday, June 17.
Taking place at Eve's Bar and Cafe on High St, Shepparton at 10am, attendees are encouraged to engage in group discussions, free from any specific agenda or objectives.
This gathering aims to break the taboo surrounding death and create a safe space for open discussions.
Inspired by Swiss sociologist Bernard Crettaz, who initiated ‘Café mortel’ after his wife's passing, Death Cafés have gained popularity worldwide, with Shepparton hosting its own version.
Mr Crettaz died late last year at 84.
This event is not intended for grief support or counselling but rather to explore the topic of death openly.
Mr McLean said the Death Café was a non-profit event where participants purchase their own refreshments.
It aims to provide an accessible, respectful, and confidential space, allowing individuals to share their thoughts without any pressure or predetermined conclusions.
“I firmly believe a person’s capacity to feel comfortable in their own skin and thrive depends upon many things, among them the understanding and acceptance of personal mortality, that is their death,” he said.
Mr McLean, who has organised the same event on three previous occasions, said these gatherings could be surprisingly enjoyable, with laughter and camaraderie prevailing despite the subject matter's gravity.
To learn more about Shepparton's Death Café you can contact Mr McLean via email at r.mclean7@icloud.com or phone at 0400 502 199.