MEN MATTER RACEDAY TURFS OUT COMPLACENCY
AFTER years of watching mates battle “head down” through physical and mental health struggles, Gold Coast Turf Club boss Brett Cook knew something needed to be done.
So last year he crafted the Men Matter Raceday at Bundall – raising awareness and money for men’s health charities.
The event raised more than $140,000. This time, Mr Cook is hoping to top $200,000.
“I hit 50 and you start seeing men around you getting affected by all different types of things, (including) mental health,” he said.
“When you compare ladies to blokes we neglect all our health things. A heap of it can be avoided.
“One of my truck drivers, about 18 months ago, went to work twice with pains in the arm, he’s in his early 50s.
“Night three, he had to pull over and get wheeled out in an ambulance. He’d had a heart attack.
“That’s the message. If you’re feeling not right, go get checked out. Talk to someone.”
Money raised at Saturday’s event will go to mental health charity LIVIN, the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia and medical research group The Common Good.
“I knew we’d found a winner from how quickly people came out,” Mr Cook said. “We’ve got a lot of big ticket items on auction, a Mercedes, a Ducati. There’s about $100,000 when you walk in the door.”
Events include live racing, barbers, entertainment and raffles. The day runs from 10am-5.30pm on Saturday. For more information about how to buy tickets visit gctc.com.au/event/ men-matter-raceday.