It’s a busy world we live in, and there isn’t as much time as there once was for social connections such as dating. There are online introduction platforms, but as Redlands resident Krystal Anderson says, they lack the personal connection made with face-to-face interactions. That’s what prompted Krystal to arrange a speed-dating evening last September – that, and a commitment to supporting mental health organisations.
Last year’s event raised $1,631 for Lifeline’s Out of the Shadows Suicide Prevention project; as well, it was such a social success that Krystal has decided to run it again in April – with a few modifications to cope with the almost overwhelming demand.
“We ended up with more than 360 participants, many more than I’d expected,” Krystal says. “I’ve recruited a few more friends to help this time, we’ve organised a bigger venue and we’ll reduce the individual interaction time between couples.
“Everyone really loved the trivia-style icebreaker – we probably could have played that all night – and they had to close the venue to get people to leave at the end of the evening!”
Krystal says that there were 18 ‘matches’ made, when both parties expressed an interest in the other and were put in touch by Krystal’s team, as well as the many more friendships made in the course of the evening.
“It’s so good to see the community functioning like this, not tied to their mobile phones, making contacts the way we should. If anyone is tempted to give it a try just come along – or you’re missing out on a great evening!”
The next speed dating evening is scheduled for Saturday April 5 at the Koala Tavern, Capalaba. For more information and tickets, scan the QR code, or search for Redlands Speed Dating 2025 at Eventbrite.com.au.
