Footy legends tackle men’s mental health

RUGBY league legends Bill Harrigan, Paul Sironen, and Don McKinnon will share their life experiences at a special men’s mental health lunch at The Bowlo Bangalow on November 8.

Funds raised from the Lunch with Your Mates event will go towards the Black Dog Institute, a not-for-profit research centre that investigates mental health across the lifespan.

The event is being organised by Bangalow Men’s Shed, NSW Police and Bangalow Lions Club, with support from The Bowlo.

“Unfortunately, the Byron and Lismore shires have the highest suicide rate per head of population in NSW,” Bangalow Men’s Shed president David Noakes said.

“Our idea was to have a retro lunch with footballers of three vintages – all of whom are ex policemen. We are aiming for 150 people with a three-hour drinks package and a three-course meal.”

Harrigan, who is the former head of refereeing for the National Rugby League, retired in 2003 with the record of the most rugby league State of Origin matches officiated.

Sironen played for the Balmain Tigers in the 1980s and early 1990s, while McKinnon played for the North Sydney Bears and Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles in the 1970s and 1980s.

Bangalow local Brian Grant, who is also a retired referee, will mc the lunch.

It is the event’s second year. Last year boxer Jeff Horn talked about how he dealt with acquiring brain damage through the sport, and former Brisbane Broncos prop Shane Webcke spoke about losing his dad on a building site when he was 18. Ex-Balmain Tigers player Wayne Wigham revealed he was a drug addict and an alcoholic in his 20s.

“It’s a balance of fun and raising awareness,” Mr Noakes said.

Tickets cost $1,200 for a table of up to eight guests.

For more information and tickets, visit bowlobangalow.com.au/events/mens-health-lunch