Support for men’s mental health on the menu

A NEW event helped spark conversations around men’s mental health while raising funds for local support networks around the region.

Men of all ages turned out for an afternoon of raffles and fundraising with the Northern Rivers Hotel hosting Lunch with your Mates.

The idea came from a similar event run by the Bangalow Men’s Shed last year.

They were the main beneficiary again, along with the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.

It was organised by Tony Durheim, whose family run the Lismore pub.

Durheim said he was compelled to run an event after attending the Bangalow event.

“I was shocked by some of the statistics and a lot of people probably don’t know how bad it is,” he said.

“Everyone has a story to tell and we wanted to do something like this for a while now.

“Lunch with your Mates meant so much more than just a few beers; it sparked vital conversations about men’s mental health.

“We are truly grateful to have hosted such a meaningful day, and we eagerly look forward to doing it all again.”

Olympic swimming champion Duncan Armstrong hosted the event

Former rugby league and rugby union stars Elton Flatley and Craig Salvatori were special guests along with journalists Robert ‘Crash’ Craddock, Ian Hanson and Pat Welsh.

There was an array of raffles and prizes with support from Advice Plus Financial.

Northern Rivers Hotel manager Darrell Crockford and Anthony George were instrumental in the running of the event.

George has a long association with the Wallabies and has donated some of his best memorabilia to the pub.

There will be ongoing support from the event with organisers linking up the NSW Police to run further workshops for younger men.

If you need to speak to someone for support, please contact the men’s shed on 1300 550 009 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.