Personal Loss Inspires 60km Mental Health Journey
Mitch Brandon understands the devastating impact of suicide better than most. The primary school teacher lost his father, Greg Brandon, to suicide five years ago. Growing up in Gunnedah, Mitch witnessed firsthand how country men often struggle to discuss mental health concerns.
"Men's mental health out there, most people aren't as aware of it as they could be, being country fellas," Mitch explained. "They just keep it bottled up to themselves. So we need to get more awareness out there. It's not weak to speak."
This personal connection drives Mitch's participation in Saturday's 60-kilometre walk from Nelson Bay to Newcastle, raising crucial funds for men's mental health initiatives through the Movember Foundation.
The Challenging Coastal Trek
The massive fundraising effort began unexpectedly last year in the staff room at Shortland Public School, where all three organisers work. Blake Martin, 23, who completed the walk last year with another friend, recalled how the idea took shape.
"It started last year when we were sitting in our staff room and saw something on Facebook about walking 60 kilometres in one month," Blake said. "But we thought, stuff it, let's do it in one go."
What began as a small initiative has grown significantly this year, with approximately 28 walkers expected to participate. Friends and family members will join for sections of the journey, creating a moving community of support.
The group will depart from Nelson Bay marina at 4am on Saturday, following a carefully planned route that includes brief stops at the Pearl Servo, Murrook Culture Centre, Saxby's Bakery, the eastern side of Stockton Bridge, and Guzman and Gomez at Tighes Hill. They'll avoid taking the ferry shortcut across the harbour and steer clear of the challenging Stockton Bight beach route, ensuring the journey totals exactly 60 kilometres.
Community Rallies Behind Mental Health Cause
The fundraising efforts have gained substantial community support, with the group well on their way toward their $10,000 fundraising target. Local businesses have rallied behind the cause, including BJ's Workwear which has sponsored the walking kits.
For Mitch, who missed last year's walk due to a leg injury, completing the journey holds special significance. The memory of his late father, who was 56 when he died, will provide motivation throughout the challenging day.
"Men's mental health and suicide has touched us pretty close," Mitch said. "Everyone has their own little story about why it's connected to them, but that's what will be pushing me on through the day."
Fellow walker Matt Soper-Lawler echoed this sentiment, emphasizing how mental health issues affect countless Australians. "Everyone has got a connection to it, somehow," he noted.
The walkers will finish their marathon journey at Queens Wharf Hotel around 6pm, where they'll celebrate their achievement and auction a signed Canberra Raiders jersey to boost their fundraising total. Community members interested in supporting the cause can donate through the Movember website or follow their journey on Instagram via '@60k_inaday_'.
Support is available for those who may be distressed. Phone Lifeline 13 11 14; Mensline 1300 789 978; beyondblue 1300 224 636.
