Golf game to support men’s mental health

AN annual golf event that shines a spotlight on men’s mental health and suicide prevention is returning today.

Held once again at the Ballarat Golf Club, the charity golf day is expected to raise thousands of dollars for the Ballarat Foundation’s James Petrie Fund.

“It’s about breaking down stigma towards men’s mental health and opening up about suicide,” said organiser, Greg Walsh, who established the event nine years ago.

“I’d like for things to be more open than it has been during my generation and my dad’s generation and it has been good the last few years.

“More people seem to be talking about it at events when that wasn’t the case a decade ago.”

Following an 11am lunch, the main event is expected to tee off at 12pm and conclude around 5pm followed by a trophy presentation and auction with items donated by local businesses.

Mr Walsh estimated the event raises about $15,000 each year, with funds previously donated towards R U OK? and Ballarat Men’s Mental Health.

The James Petrie Fund was established last year in honour of the eponymous late Ballarat teacher and sportsman, and is also supported with the Peach’s Run event which will take place tomorrow.

Having lost several family members over the years to suicide, Mr Walsh said it’s important to break down barriers for men to open up about their struggles.

“When I first lost my cousin about 45 years ago, it wasn’t even put in the paper,” he said.

“He died suddenly and it was frowned upon, where people said it was selfish. That wasn’t the case. He was struggling and couldn’t open up because there was such a dark cloud in society over it.

“It should be the other way around. If people are struggling, let’s not give them more anxiety and anguish by not being able to talk to their mates about it.”

Individual registration is $100 while group entry is $400 for a four-person team and can be done by visiting bit.ly/4e9wQYo.