Club to support men’s mental health

BALLARAT Greyhound’s is celebrating Father’s Day with a pool competition for teams of two and a series of fundraisers for men’s mental health.

The event will be held from 12.30pm on Sunday 3 September at Ballarat Greyhound Racing Club and fathers or grandfathers are invited to enter the pool competition with their child or grandchild.

There will also be a raffle, dad joke competition, 12 greyhound races, and a gift for all fathers attending.

The competition is part of a larger fundraising campaign where Ballarat Greyhounds has partnered with Sportsbet to provide support to Ballarat Men’s Mental Health, or BMMH.

In August, every time a number four blue dog won a race, Ballarat Greyhounds donated $50 and Sportsbet donated $250 to BMMH.

General Manager of Ballarat Greyhound Racing Club, Jodie Faralla, said it was important to support this cause.

“One of my male family members has faced mental health challenges, and I’ve witnessed firsthand how organisations like BMMH can provide invaluable support not just to those grappling with mental health but also to their families,” she said.

“The Father’s Day event will serve as a poignant reminder of the importance of open conversations surrounding men’s mental health.

“By coming together as a united community, we hope it will take away the stigma often associated with mental health.”

The BMMH, founded in 2019, is a not-for-profit organisation which provides counselling services to men aged 25 to 60 and is guided by the principle of early intervention.

BMMH chair Andrew McPherson said it is important men to create connections in groups like the Ballarat Greyhound Racing Club.

“Within the Ballarat region, the prevalence of mental health issues and alarmingly high suicide rates have encouraged BMMH to take proactive measures,” he said.

“Organisations like the Ballarat Greyhound Racing Club provide an opportunity to engage with men who might not otherwise seek help.

“These organisations allow us to have casual conversations within a welcoming setting, enabling us to introduce ourselves and open the avenues of communication.”

Entries to the pool competition are $10, and a two-course buffet lunch will also be on offer for $38 for adults and $12 for children under 12.

To enter the competition or book a table for Father’s Day phone 5335 7201.