At some point, we've all sat down with our parents for "the talk", but according to this local group, that conversation shouldn't end at the birds and the bees.
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Drug and alcohol specialist Amanda Anning, together with a team of health professionals and concerned community members, is hoping to curb alcohol and drug-related problems in Cowra and improve health outcomes in the community by targeting parents with their first campaign.
"The Other Talk" is the first event the new community drug action team is bringing to Cowra and Ms Anning said it's an opportunity for adults to learn how they can initiate conversations about drugs and alcohol with kids.
"We need to give parents back the confidence to talk to their kids about the big issues. If we give parents the right information and help them to understand, they'll feel more confident with what they're talking to their family about," Ms Anning said.
"Just like with sex education, if we're open and honest with our kids, they'll be able to make more informed decisions."
Running on Thursday, October 16, between 6.30pm and 9.30pm, the talk is free and open for all adults, parents, guardians, teachers, professionals and interested persons over the age of 18.
The Australian Drug Foundation's national policy manager Geoff Munro has worked in the field of drugs and alcohol for over 25 years, specialising in drug training, prevention and community development.
He'll be on hand to educate parents on how to address these kinds of issues with their kids and when to tackle them.
"New studies show the age we think we should start to talk about these issues with our kids is different to when we actually should," Ms Anning said.
"Schools are now starting to look at talking to eight-year-olds about drugs and alcohol. I don't think there's any given age though.
"I think it depends on the family, the environment and I think it depends on what's happening around them.
"We often talk about the transition from primary school to high school, where friend bases change and young people start to look at experimentation.
"If we can start to talk to our kids before they start experimenting, they'll have a better idea of the risks and consequences."
To book your seat, contact Amanda Anning on 6340 0816, from Monday to Wednesday between 9am-5pm.
Cowra Rotary will also be providing a light supper on the evening.
