Craig Mack — Raising the bar

Is WiFi always the strongest connection

As technology integrates more and more into our lives it brings the world closer, increases our productivity, gives us more control, choice and freedom and provides endless lifestyle improvements. Technology also has the power to strengthen relationships - by making it easier to stay in touch, build community – locally, globally and by our interests, and enhance our sense of belonging (and has equal power to damage them).

Australians have an average of 6 social media accounts each, more people own a mobile phone than a toothbrush and the average person will spend over 100 days online this year – yet the most powerful connection we can have is being face to face with another person.

We’re the most connected we’ve ever been, and can have Face time with almost anyone, anywhere, anytime, so why do around half of Australian’s say they feel lonely? Is it time to put less scrolling and more “human” back into our connections?

Bio

The power and impact of connection, whether it be human, wifi, with ourselves or with the world is a relationship that fascinates Craig Mack. His experiences of managing his own mental health, driving change in the NSW Mental Health Commission Community Advisory Council, developing social media strategy and educating students at Sydney University and Macleay College have provided the opportunity to observe and investigate our ever changing technology, influences, attitudes and behaviours.

The intersection of human connection, mental health and technology is more complex than we like to think and Craig looks beyond the surface to encourage deeper thought, reflection and change.