Book Launch Event

We’re so looking forward to celebrating with you at the book launch of the Children’s Mental Health Gallery – a collection of 100 artworks and stories created by children, young people, and families with lived and living experiences of mental health.

This page has everything you’ll need for the night - from how to get there, to what to expect once you arrive!

✨ Event Details

  • Date: Wednesday 1 October 2025

  • Time: 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm

  • Venue: The Farmacy Restaurant, next to the Royal Children’s Hospital (48 Flemington Rd, Parkville VIC 3052)

  • Dress code: Smart casual. Most people will be in neat, comfortable clothes - feel free to wear whatever helps you feel good and at ease!

📅 Agenda at a Glance

  • 5:00 pm5:30 pm: Arrival & registration (pick up your name tag and book!)

  • 5:30 pm6:00 pm: Welcome, artist performances, and official launch

  • 6:00 pm7:00 pm: More food, drinks, and informal mingling

🍴 Food & Drinks

  • Canapés: Warm and cold options, including marinated chicken, prawn skewers, cheeseburger spring rolls, vegetarian dumplings, and chips.

  • Grazing table: Cheeses, crackers, fruit, breads, dips, nuts, and sweet treats.

  • Drinks: Non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks can be purchased at the bar.

All dietary requests from RSVPs (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, nut-free, dairy-free, FODMAP, and more) have been passed to the venue and will be catered for individually.

🚗 Getting There

  • On Flemington Road: Access to The Farmacy is on Flemington Road (not through the hospital).

  • Public transport: Tram 59 stops right outside the hospital.

  • Drop-off: Accessible drop-off is available directly at The Farmacy entrance.

  • Parking: Paid parking available onsite at the Royal Children’s Hospital. Rates are available here. We can support artists and Lived Experience Advisors with reimbursements for parking after the event.

♿ Accessibility

  • The venue is fully wheelchair- and pram-accessible, with accessible toilets.

  • Seating will be available throughout, with all seating having no arms.

  • Assistance dogs are permitted with documentation.

  • Staff and volunteers will be around all evening to help with any access needs.

  • A quiet lounge space is available if you need a break any time during the event.

📸 Photography

  • Our professional photographer and videographer will capture the evening gently and respectfully.

  • Your name tag will show if you’ve opted out of photos.

  • If you change your mind later, just let us know - we’ll support you and the photography team.

🫶 Atmosphere

This event is:

  • Safe, inclusive, and family-friendly.

  • Centred on connection and conversation, with only a few short speeches.

  • Focused on celebrating artists, families, and the broader community.

We know events can sometimes feel overwhelming - please feel free to step outside or speak to a staff member if you need support at any point.

🧾 Health & Safety

  • Please stay home if you feel unwell - we’ll still send you a copy of the book.

  • Hand sanitiser and masks will be available on site if you’d like to use them.

❓ FAQ

Where do I check in?
There will be a registration desk at the entrance where you’ll receive your name tag.

Can I bring someone else?
RSVPs have now closed and numbers are capped, so unfortunately we can’t accommodate extra guests this time. Thank you for understanding.

Can children attend?
Yes, children and young people are very welcome.

What if I need to leave early?
No problem — we’ll make sure you collect your book before you go!

Can I get extra copies of the book?
Each guest will receive one complimentary copy on the night, thanks to our generous private donor.

Will photos be shared afterwards?
Yes — selected photos will be shared with attendees after the event.

Who can I contact on the night?
Your on-day contact is Emily Unity. On the day, if you need to contact Emily, please text 0423 754 206. There will also be venue staff and team members to help.

💙 We can’t wait to share this milestone with you

Thank you for being part of a night that honours courage, creativity, and community.