Community rallies for mental health

Burnett Today's 12-page 'Joyful Together' liftout (28/11/23) was one of the many ways $70,000 in funding from a mental health golf event series was used in the region.

Thanks to the tireless efforts and generous contributions of the South Burnett community, a remarkable $70,000 became available to support mental health initiatives.

The funding pool is the result of an eight-month charity golf event series held in 2023, organized under the South Burnett Mental Health Golf Challenge Funding Appeal.

Then-deputy mayor of the South Burnett Regional Council and one of the architects of the golf event, Gavin Jones, expressed his gratitude for the support shown to the venture.

“The support just kept growing and coming in different ways,” he said.

“Golfers, golf clubs, businesses, industry, and individuals all pitched in with sponsorships or donations of auction items.”

Red Earth Community Foundation South Burnett auspiced the Mental Health Golf Challenge, allocating $2,500 to the South Burnett Suicide Prevention Working Group, supporting among other initiatives Burnett Today’s “Joyful Together” 16-page special lift out on 28 November 2023.

The lift-out aimed to bring joy and brighten the then-approaching holiday season for those who may be struggling around Christmastime.

For more details and a full digital version of the liftout, visit

burnetttoday.com.au/all-digital-editions/joyful-together/.

Among the many generous givers who supported the South Burnett’s mental health initiative, Mr Jones and his fellow golf day organiser Scott Henschen deserve special acknowledgment for their unwavering commitment and support.

The collective spirit and generosity of the South Burnett community have made a significant impact, ensuring that mental health support programs continue to thrive and bring positive change.