Having a swing at social connection

Art of the Minds will be back this October to host a week of exciting events across the Surf Coast during National Mental Health Month, including a community golf day.

The theme of this year’s festivities will embody the five C’s: Celebrating Creative Community Conversations and Connections.

The golf day will take place at The Sands Resort October 8 and is titled the CGA (Community Golf Alliance) – a humorous take on the PGA event where the focus is about social connection.

The day is open to new and experienced players from all communities and is a terrific day out for businesses in showing their support of mental illness.

Art of the Minds president and mental health educator Jules Haddock said it was a fantastic event for a worthy cause and in line with existing research.

“According to the 2007 National Mental Health Survey, one in five Australians aged 16-85, will experience a mental illness every year.

“In fact, they believe this figure is more attune with one in four people, making this a perfect fit for an Ambrose team of four.”

Art of The Minds are now calling for sponsors who can support the on-field activities and education planned on the day, by purchasing one of the 18-hole banners, complete with business logo, or personal photo.

Event facilitator and treasurer of Art of the Minds Ken Baxter said the event provides an opportunity for people to talk about mental health.

“Both men and women can realise the importance of activities outside the competition element, as the need to be connected to one another in managing our mental wellbeing, and reducing feelings of isolation in community.”

A variety of on-course activities will be in store, including competitions against Josh Lancaster, the resident pro golfer at The Sands; and Jason Loftus, who recently won the Australian Longest Drive competition.

For further information about the Art of the Minds events, head to artoftheminds.org.au. Teams can book on Eventbrite.