United for mental health
An over-40s football and netball event in Ararat on Sunday will help raise money for Grampians Community Health mental health and family violence programs.
Billed as a chance for competitors to show the younger generation ‘they’ve still got it’, the day is the brainchild of former Richmond and Ararat footballer Scott Turner.
The event will be at Ararat’s Alexandra Oval, with netball starting at 1pm and football at 2pm.
The over-40s football game has become an annual event in Ararat, while this is the first year an over40s netball game will be played.
Mr Turner said the event had been well received by the Ararat community.
“Last year’s match was an overwhelming success,” he said.
“We easily found players for the two teams for the football match, attracted a crowd of more than 500 people and raised money to bring the HALT mental health program to the region.”
Netball organiser Meagan Shea said she was amazed at the interest and support for netball to be included.
“The inclusion of netball is a great addition and will only attract more people to the game,” she said.
“Sponsorship for the match is even bigger than last year with a few new major sponsors on board.”
Grampians Community Health chief executive Greg Little said the day would have a ‘healthy families’ focus to highlight the importance of working together to prevent family violence.
“The day is celebrating healthy families and relationships because positive, safe and respectful relationships are essential to the health and wellbeing of all of us and make for happier communities to live in,” he said.
Mrs Shea said the matches were a great way to highlight strong, healthy families and gender equality, displaying positive relationships and community involvement.
“Even though there’s an important message attached, the match is a fun day out for the whole family,” she said.
Gates for the event will open at midday, with gold coin entry. Food and drink will be available at the ground, with presentations, raffles and an auction to follow the matches.
People can call Rachel Whittaker at Grampians Community Health on 5358 7400 for more information.