3SOC performs for the VGCCC during GHAW 2024
On 19 Dec, Three Sides of the Coin (3SOC) performed “Happily Ever After” for the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) during Gambling Harm Awareness Week 2024. This week centres on raising awareness about gambling harm and how it affects individuals, families and communities.
This year’s theme was: “You’re meant to lose more than you win. Know what’s behind the game.”
This campaign encouraged people to rethink their chances of winning and the decision behind gambling. From discussing how gambling products work to misconceptions around knowledge and skill, the campaign was filled with resources and education throughout the community.
3SOC lived experience storytellers (Carolyn and Sunenna) performed their stories of resilience and recovery, their vivid performances highlighting the deep links between gambling harm, mental health, family violence, and crime.
VGCCC staff participated in a thought-provoking Q&A, gaining valuable insights into the personal impacts of gambling harm. The feedback and learning were glowing, including comments such as:
- “[I learned] the importance of sharing stories of lived experience to increase community understanding of the devastating impact of harm.”
- “[I learned] about] the complexity of gambling, not just about the activity, but intertwined with life more broadly.”
- “[I] feel motivated to advocate for harm minimisation in our regulatory practice.”
- “Addiction is very complex, and people still don’t realise it’s beyond ‘personal responsibility’.”
- “Outstanding presentation. Emotional, courageous, inspiring.”
Thank you to Carolyn and Sunenna for their passionate performances and VGCCC for hosting 3SOC. We’re thankful for the opportunity to discuss gambling harm candidly with VGCCC staff.
