United front for mental health

Shoulder to shoulder. Corowa Rutherglen and Wodonga Bulldogs formed a large circle prior to last week’s senior games showing solidarity for front line workers in the inaugural Ovens and Murray Mental Health Round.

Corowa Rutherglen and Wodonga Bulldogs displayed a strong message of unity last Saturday for the Ovens and Murray Football Netball League’s first Mental Health Round.

The inaugural ‘Protecting the Protectors’ Cup was initiated by Wodonga Bulldogs player David Kapay and Victoria Police veteran Sandii Greaves, who teamed up earlier this year for the 365 Campaign to raise awareness for physical and mental wellbeing.

The day was about recognising the mental health impacts of front-line workers (health, police, fire brigade members, etc.), as well as raising awareness and much needed funds for the Emergency Services Foundation.

Corowa Rutherglen senior netball coach Georgie Bruce, A Grade netballers Liv Sinclair and Sophie Hanrahan pictured with the ‘Protecting the Protectors’ Cup.

Prior to the senior football and A-grade netball, players, supporters, umpires and coaching staff from both clubs formed a giant circle on the Martin Park Oval showing solidarity and support for front-line workers. It was a powerful message which resonated with each and every person on the day.

The ‘Protecting the Protectors Cup’ was won by the Roos on aggregate wins across the netball and football matches on the day.

The cup was presented to Georgie Bruce and Joe Hansen at the end of the game who thanked the organisers raising awareness for such an important issue.

The faces of the ‘Protecting the Protectors’ Cup David Kapay and Victoria Police veteran Sandii Greaves address the crowd, thanking everyone for their support on the important issue of mental health and PTSD.