What’s happening
A series of free workshops hosted by Dementia Australia will take place across the Central Highlands between 17 and 19 March 2026.
The sessions will be delivered in Emerald, Blackwater, Springsure and Capella, providing information and guidance for people concerned about memory changes or supporting someone with dementia.
The program is open to people living with dementia as well as carers, relatives and community members who want to learn more about the condition.
Topics covered include types of dementia, diagnosis, memory changes related to ageing and available support services.
Bookings are essential.
Scheduled sessions include:
Tuesday 17 March
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Understanding Dementia, 9 am to 10:30 am, Emerald
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EDIE for Family Carers, 10 am to 2 pm, Blackwater
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Creating a Dementia-Friendly Emerald, 10 am to 12 pm, Emerald
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Memory and Ageing Session, 1 pm to 2:30 pm, Emerald
Wednesday 18 March
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Understanding Dementia, 9:30 am to 11 am, Blackwater
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Carer Wellness Program, 9:30 am to 2:30 pm, Emerald
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Memory and Ageing Session, 10:30 am to 12 pm, Springsure
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Creating a Dementia-Friendly Blackwater, 11:30 am to 12:30 pm, Blackwater
Thursday 19 March
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Creating a Dementia-Friendly Capella, 10 am to 11:30 am, Capella
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EDIE for Family Carers, 10:30 am to 2:30 pm, Emerald
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Memory and Ageing Session, 1 pm to 2:30 pm, Blackwater
Why it matters
Understanding dementia can help families respond earlier when memory concerns appear.
Education programs give carers and loved ones the knowledge needed to support people living with dementia while also improving community awareness.
Access to accurate information can reduce confusion and help people connect with services.
By the numbers
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Around 88,200 Queenslanders are estimated to be living with dementia today.
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More than 168,300 people in the state could be living with dementia by 2054 if no medical breakthrough occurs.
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Three days of sessions across the Central Highlands will deliver free dementia education between 17 and 19 March 2026.
Zoom in
One of the sessions uses immersive technology to help carers understand dementia.
The EDIE for Family Carers workshop uses virtual reality simulations that allow participants to experience everyday situations through the perspective of someone living with dementia.
Other sessions guide recognising symptoms, planning and accessing professional support.
Zoom out
Dementia cases are increasing across Australia as the population ages.
Health organisations are focusing on education and early support to help communities respond to this growing challenge.
Programs delivered in regional areas help ensure families outside major cities can access support.
Local impact
For people living in regional Queensland, including Mackay and surrounding communities, the sessions offer nearby access to dementia education and support.
The workshops aim to strengthen community understanding while helping carers feel more confident supporting loved ones.
What to look for next
Bookings are required to attend.
Registrations are available at
https://www.dementia.org.au/brain-hub-central-highlands-qld
People can also call the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500, which operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
