Flagstone State Community College have made the grand final for the Positive Mindset Creative Arts Festival which will be contested on October 11.
There are more than 20 students participating in the dance, drama and music – battle of the bands - categories.
At the festival they will have the chance to show off their creative talents and help raise awareness of addiction and mental health concerns.
Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Cameron Dick encouraged the local community and schools in particular to get behind the event which was being organised by Metro South Hospital and Health Service.
“This year, the take-home message from the festival is all about the three Cs - creativity, connection and having a chat,” he said.
“Many challenges face our youth, and finding a creative outlet can often have a positive impact on their lives.
“Good community connections – often through a shared experience such as playing music – can reduce the likelihood of isolation and engaging in risk-taking behaviour.
"Encouraging youth to check in on their friends and chat is a simple action. But it may lead to a young person who needs help for mental health ill-health or drug misuse seeking that help.”
In it’s second year the festival has been expanded to include dance and media categories.
Mr Dick said it was important to address the stigma associated with mental illness.
“The festival provides an opportunity to learn more about how to achieve and maintain good mental health and reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness,” he said.
Mr Dick said he was looking forward to seeing the community’s talent on display during the Festival.
“From Savage Garden to Dami Im, Logan develops phenomenal talent, and we have a responsibility to ensure the youth of today have the tools they need to be resilient and face tomorrow’s challenges,” he said.
For more information about the festival visit http://metrosouth.health.qld.gov.au/arts-festival