Gear up for the Garden City Gala

Eight men and three women take their lives every day in Australia and one in five will suffer from depression at least once in their life.

It’s a confronting statistic but it’s the reality, and an inspired group of Toowoomba men want to take action and change that statistic.

They’ve formed the Garden City Gala, an event that will take place on March 17 in Toowoomba, with all funds raised being donated to the Black Dog Institute.

The guest speakers for the inaugural event are Darius and Kayla Boyd. Darius Boyd, the Broncos captain, has had his struggles with mental health well-documented.

“You break a leg, you go to a doctor,” Darius says.

“You have a few problems with your mental health, you do the same.

“Men have to know it’s not weak to speak.

“I’m honoured Kayla and I can be a part of this great event, which is trying to break the stigma of mental health.” Kayla agrees awareness is needed. “Mental health is a big issue in society and it takes a significant burden, not only on the person battling mental health but also their families,” she says.

“Love and support of your close network is vital in overcoming mental health. Events like this go a long way towards breaking the stigma.”

GARDEN CITY GALA

WHEN: SATURDAY, MARCH 17, 6PM TO 11PM WHERE: BLANK SPACE AT THE MILLS PRECINCT COST: $165 TOOWOOMBATICKETS.COM.AU