Raising awareness for mental health is at the heart of the West Ulverstone Community Sports Club annual Beyond Blue fundraising game today.
Organisations such as Beyond Blue play a significant role in promoting awareness and early intervention, connecting communities, and instilling a sense of hope for the future.
Attending the fundraiser matches today, Premier and Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing, Jeremy Rockliff, said the annual event not only raises awareness for the work Beyond Blue does, but it also highlights the important link between sport and recreational activities and the impact it can have on mental health and wellbeing, and how it can bring people together and connect local communities.
“We know that participating in sport not only improves your physical health, but it goes a long way to support positive mental health, while also encouraging social skills,” the Premier said.
“Community sporting clubs, like the West Ulverstone Community Sports Club, are often the social hub of the town and provide opportunities for communities to come together and celebrate, or commiserate, their team’s performance.”
Premier Rockliff said that just under 64,000 Tasmanians reported in the 2021 census that they had a long-term mental health condition – this is a sobering figure.
“To put that in context, the Central Coast municipality has a population of just under 23,000 people,” he said.
“That is why it is so important that we continue to build on and support events like today, which help create a more compassionate, kind, and supportive community for all Tasmanians.
“I commend those who work tirelessly to raise awareness, break down stigma and support those who need it most.
“Congratulations to the West Ulverstone Community Sports Club and Beyond Blue for their commitment to organising this important fundraising event.”
