Read the Play inspires resilience and kindness

HUNDREDS of people packed the President’s Room at GMHBA Stadium on Friday last week for the annual Read the Play Fundraiser Breakfast.

This year’s event, hosted by Cameron Ling and Claudia Gunjaca, featured a return from last year’s keynote speaker Kath Koschel, who spoke about her battles after breaking her back, losing the love of her life and ensuring people look after themselves.

Read the Play general manager Michelle Gerdtz said Koschel’s story embodies resilience, vulnerability and the power of kindness.

“As someone who has faced extraordinary physical and emotional adversity, Kath’s journey shows young people and adults alike that it’s possible to rebuild, to ask for help, and to find strength in community

and kindness.

“Kath’s story reminds us that even in our darkest moments, there is hope – and that choosing kindness, as she says, can be the most powerful response of all.

“There was a real sense of shared purpose in the room – from the heartfelt stories to the laughs and moments of reflection.”

Koschel used an analogy often heard on airplanes ‘passengers should secure their own oxygen mask before assisting others,’ encouraging others need to look after themselves and be kind to themselves before they can help others.

Locals from Read the Play’s Game Changers program also spoke at the breakfast, sharing their own stories from their clubs and the support they receive, a highlight for Ms Gerdtz.

“Their confidence, passion, and insight were inspiring.

“We were also proud to shine a spotlight on our Player Wellbeing Officers, whose dedication helps make sporting clubs safe and supporting spaces for young people.”

A live auction and raffle held during the morning helped raise money to support Read the Play and the work they do in the community.

Ms Gerdtz said the funds will specifically support the delivery of free mental health education workshops and helping Read the Play strengthen its support for Player Wellbeing Officers.