A bright yellow reminder is headed down Princes Highway, carrying a question it seems many could use to hear. 

From 2–15 March, the R U OK? Conversation Convoy will wind its way through the South Coast, stopping in towns from Wollongong to Bungendore reminding others you don’t have to be an expert to ask someone if they’re OK – you just have to care.

The Convoy will stop in Wollongong on Monday (2 March), Nowra and Shellharbour on Tuesday, Kiama on Wednesday and Vincentia and Kiama again on Thursday.

“Checking in with someone isn’t a one-off moment; it’s about building trust and connection over time,” CEO Lachlan Searle said. 

 “By coming back to the South Coast, we want to acknowledge what communities have previously shared with us, see how they’re travelling, and continue to walk alongside them.”

The Conversation Convoy travels across regional Australia each year, meeting locals face-to-face at community events, schools, workplaces and organisations.

There’s no lecture circuit – just a cuppa, a chat and practical tips on how to have a meaningful conversation with someone who might be having tough times. 

Community ambassador Glenn Cotter, who lives in Bega and works in suicide prevention across the region, said the return visit sends a powerful message.

“R U OK? isn’t just about starting conversations, it’s about helping communities feel supported to keep having them, any day of the year,” Cotter said. 

“Having the Convoy travel back through our region is a powerful reminder that these conversations matter and really do make a difference.”

This year’s South Coast route includes stops in Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama, Nowra, Milton, Batemans Bay, Moruya, Narooma, Bega, Bermagui and Bungendore.

Free public events along the way will offer a warm drink and practical tools to help locals feel more confident recognising when someone might be struggling and how to respond. 

As Searle said, sometimes people simply prefer to talk things through in person and learn what support services are available close to home.

“Locals know best,” he said.

“Through the Conversation Convoy we can better understand what people need, so our resources and programs continue to be practical and useful.”

The Convoy is part of R U OK?’s broader work in regional and rural communities, where connection can be a protective factor against suicide.

Research in the field of suicide prevention has long called attention to the importance of belonging and community – something R U OK? aims to strengthen by empowering everyday Australians to look out for their friends, family and workmates.

R U OK? Day itself will be held on 10 September 2026, but organisers stress the message applies every day of the year: Ask R U OK? Any Day – because a conversation could change a life.

For event details and free resources, visit ruok.org.au.

If you or someone you know needs support, Lifeline is available 24/7 on 13 11 14. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people can contact 13YARN on 13 92 76 for free, confidential support.