FORMER COP ON THE BALL WHEN IT COMES TO HELP

AFTER the sudden death of NRL icon Paul Green, one Townsville man was inspired to help.

Former police officer Shane Martin had opened his phone to the news of the passing of Paul Green on Thursday.

The Townsville resident, who heads the group Supporting Those Who Support the Community (STWSTC), had just picked up an autographed Steeden donated by the Cowboys community team for the charity when the news flashed onhis screen.

He said he felt so moved to help that he decided to use the ball as part of an auction with all funds would be donated toa mental health support group.

“I battle with mental health issues myself, and I knew within the short amount of time (since hearing of Green’s death) thati wanted to honour the memory of Paul Green and perhaps save someone else’s life,” Mr Martin said.

“This 2022 signature ball was donated by North Queensland Toyota Cowboys and it just feels right to auction it to prevent further suicides.”

The ball is donned with printed signatures of Cowboys team members.

Mr Martin said his charity, STWSTC, predominantly focused on auctioning off sporting memorabilia,ilia, with the funds going towardsds helping veterans, first respondersonders and frontline health carere workers facing challenges.

He said nobody, not even those in positions of notoriety in society such as Green, were immune from m personal battles with th mental health.

“I want to honour ur them for what they’ve done for the community, and acknowledge their leadership and the image they represent to young people,” he said.

“They’re human beings and they’re subject to emotions s just like the rest of us,

He said the winning ning bidder would decide de which organisationn the funds would go to.

To find out more or to place a bid, go to: https:// bit.ly/3qe8a5j

If you or someone you know needs help, reach out to: Lifeline: 13 11 14

Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 Kids Helpline:

1800 55

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