Member for Murray Austin Evans said Professional and local cricket legends new and old from around the region will team up with one of NSW’s leading rural mental health programs to deliver life-saving mental health messages to the local community.
Mr Evans said the Baggy Blues Cricket Tour will visit Griffith in in December to hold a celebrity cricket match, cricket clinic for 8-17 year olds, and deliver a mental health workshop.
“Cricket brings our community together, and this match will not only be a great day out for the whole family but an important way for our rural mental health teams to reach those who need support,” Mr Evans said.
“If you notice changes in someone’s behaviour, either in yourself or those around you, reach out and encourage that person to take the first step and see their GP.”
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro and Minister for Mental Health Tanya Davies announced the NSW Government will invest $120,000 in the new partnership with Baggy Blues.
“We are in the grip of the worst drought this State has seen in decades and the NSW Government will keep supporting affected communities,” Mr Barilaro said.
Mrs Davies said the “Baggy Blues” have begun working with the Centre for Rural Remote Mental Health (CRRMH) to deliver a mental health workshop, cricket clinics for budding sports stars and a celebrity cricket match in Griffith.
“This is a timely opportunity for our Rural Adversity Mental Health Program team from CRRMH to reach members of the community who will flock to the popular Baggy Blues events,” Mrs Davies said.
If you, or someone you know, needs crisis support phone Lifeline on 13 11 14. For local mental health services call 1800 011 511.