Stadium finds serenity

MORE than 400 people helped to transform GMHBA Stadium into a mindfulness haven at the Serenity in the Stadium fundraising event.

A sea of yoga mats descended under a warm Geelong sky last weekend for a special one-hour session with Wonder Yoga’s Sally Ferris and her team.

A collaboration between Read the Play and Active Geelong, the event aimed to highlight the link between physical activity, social connection and mindfulness in supporting mental health and overall wellbeing.

Every person who attended the session had their own story and reason for being there, with some coming as part of workplace teams marking Mental Health Month and others joining friends to try yoga for the first time.

Read the Play general manager Michelle Gerdtz said it was a fantastic reason to bring people together in support of community wellbeing.

“It’s so special to see hundreds of people come together for something that celebrates both movement and mental health.

“We hope everyone left feeling rejuvenated, connected and proud to be part of this community.”

Now in its second year, participation numbers nearly doubled from the 2024 event, with organisers hopeful Serenity in the Stadium can become a regular fixture on the Geelong events calendar.

Proceeds from the event will help fund ongoing mental health education programs delivered by Read the Play in local sporting clubs and support Active Geelong’s work in building a more active, connection region.

Serenity in the Stadium will return in October 2026, with a date to soon be confirmed.