| SNOWYRIVERMAIL.COM.AU 10 WEDNESDAY, JUNE 5, 2024 10th 16th June BEYOND THE GAME Sport is a cornerstone of Australian culture. From backyard cricket to cheering on the national team, it's a way of life for many. But for Aussie men, joining a sporting club offers a whole lot more than just hitting the winning goal. Here's why lacing up your boots and joining a club could be the best decision you make for your health and happiness. THE OBVIOUS ADVANTAGE Staying active: Regular exercise is crucial for physical health. Sporting clubs provide a structured and social way to get your heart rate up and improve overall fitness. Reduced risk of chronic disease: Engaging in sports can lower the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and some types of cancer – all major health concerns for Australian men. Mental toughness: Sports build resilience and teach you to push your limits. This translates into everyday life, helping you tackle challenges and overcome obstacles. THE SOCIAL POWER OF SPORT Combatting isolation: Men are often more susceptible to social isolation. Sporting clubs provide a strong social network of like-minded individuals, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie. Building teamwork: Sports are all about teamwork. You'll learn to communicate effectively, collaborate with others, and celebrate shared victories. Mental health boost: The social interaction and sense of belonging offered by clubs can significantly improve mental health and well-being. It can be a great way to combat stress and anxiety. PERSONAL GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES Developing skills: Whether it's improving your throwing technique or honing your leadership skills, sporting clubs provide a platform for personal development. Mentorship: Many clubs have experienced players who can mentor younger members, offering guidance and support both on and off the field. Confidence builder: Mastering new skills and achieving goals within a supportive environment can significantly boost your confidence and self-esteem. FINDING YOUR FIT The beauty of Australian sporting clubs is the sheer variety. From traditional team sports like rugby or cricket to social clubs for running, hiking, or cycling, there's something for everyone, regardless of skill level or age. So, if you're looking to improve your health, connect with others, and have some fun, consider joining a sporting club. It's more than just a game; it's an investment in your overall well-being. Sporting clubs, such as community football clubs, provide more than just an athletic outlet for members, with many enjoying the social benefits off field while watching the game. 10 things to help with your physical & mental health 1. Stay Hydrated – drink more water! 2. Reduce your screen time 3. Get a goodnight sleep 4. Exercise regularly 5. Eat balanced foods 6. Limit alcohol intake 7. Read more 8. Stay connected with friends and family 9. Don’t smoke 10. Learn new skills Where to get help • Your GP (doctor) • Men’s health clinic • Healthy Male • Beyond Blue Tel. 1300 224 636 • Australian Men’s Shed Association Tel. 1300 550 009 International Men’s Health Week is celebrated every year around the world in the middle of June. It is an opportunity to highlight the importance of men’s health, and to promote and support the health and wellbeing of men in our community. Men’s Health Week focuses on not just physical health, but also men’s mental health and emotional wellbeing. During the week, we highlight the health challenges faced by men in Australia and worldwide, and raise awareness to improve the physical, emotional, and mental health of men. This year’s theme is healthy habits - focusing on encouraging men and boys to build healthy habits by identifying small changes they can make that benefit their health and wellbeing.
SNOWYRIVERMAIL.COM.AU | 11 WEDNESDAY, JUNE 5, 2024 10th 16th June MOVING FORWARD, BREAKING DOWN BARRIERS PREVENTING SUICIDE East Gippsland Suicide Intervention (EGSI) is a community and volunteer based local response to promoting life and preventing suicide. It is dedicated to increasing the awareness and capacity of grass roots individuals to respond to mental health needs in the community. Promoting life, preventing suicide: Suicide is a community health issue. Promoting life and preventing suicide, needs community involvement. It doesn't require any special training or expertise - just the courage to ask if someone is OK. What EGSI does: Meets monthly to discuss how to encourage and empower members of the community to identify, engage with and respond to individuals at risk of self – harming, including prevention and supporting to find they help they need. What you can do: on Saturday July, 13, EGSI is having a morning tea in Bairnsdale to explore how it can best support vulnerable people in the community. Whether you're a caring community member, a dedicated healthcare professional or someone with personal experience, your voice is valuable. On Saturday, June 29, in Bairnsdale, EGSI is having a free Suicide Prevention Training session. This will be a robust and evidence-based program focusing on challenging attitudes, educating people about suicide prevention and introducing basic engagement and suicide intervention skills. This will be delivered by a Wesley Lifeforce fully qualified trainer. Register online. East Gippsland Suicide Intervention has two events coming this month which would be of interest to the local community. (PS) Mental health is an integral part of the overall health and wellbeing of every one of us. It is often said that men don't look after their health generally and in particular will avoid dealing with their mental health and wellbeing, but this is changing rapidly. Men nowadays have a real understanding that there is nothing weak or wrong about seeking help to deal with issues they can't figure out how to fix themselves. If something goes wrong with the car and you don't know how to fix it you seek advice, you may go to a mechanic to help you figure out what is wrong and what needs to be done. Getting assistance and more information to help yourself is a sensible and very practical way forward. It leaves you in control. The practitioner you choose to get a mental health tune up becomes a resource and an important part of your support team as you regain control and learn how to take charge of your life. Most men prefer to see a practitioner who will give them practical ideas and help them choose a viable way forward to deal with problematic issues. What they don't really enjoy and often find of little use, other than a for an initial period of relief because they have someone is listening to and empathising with them, is talking about how they feel in great detail. They are looking for practical steps they can take to start the change process that leads to better mental health. It is interesting that men who attend counselling often don't see much point in going into great detail about the past and are reluctant to do so. While the past has everything to do with how we got to the present, it has little or nothing to do with what happens in the future unless we allow it to. So, most of the focus should be about working out what is happening now which isn't working and what they can do to change this. After all, there is nothing we can do to change the past, but we do have control over what we do from the present point forward. If we have some good advice about how to go about changing the things which aren't working and support from our team as we put this into practice, then we usually get a great result. Choosing the right practitioner for you is really important. It doesn't matter how good the practitioner is or how useful the information they can share with you, if your relationship with them is not one where there is trust and mutual respect, then it is unlikely that you will get the most out of your sessions. Talk to friends and family to try to find someone they know who might suit you, if they don't have any suggestions, have an initial conversation with the practitioner and see how it goes. If they don't seem right for you try another, this is no reflection on you or them, it just makes sense to find someone you can connect with because the issues you want to resolve are personal, private and important. Finally trust yourself, if something in your life doesn't feel right, trust your instincts. Any ongoing negative feeling you have is your system telling you something is wrong, and you need to attend to it. Just as you wouldn't ignore a change in how your car sounds or drives and would see if you can work out what is wrong before the problem got worse, so too are negative feelings our early warning system that something is not right. Get onto it quickly, because if you don't, the problem is likely to get far worse. Early action is usually easy action and delayed action far more costly in all sorts of ways as well as being time consuming to resolve. Written by Jeff Steedman, of Riviera Counselling. Men find it difficult to talk about their feelings, but opening up to a mate can be extremely beneficial. Jeff Steedman 0428 170 191 12 Dickeson Lane, Bairnsdale VIC 3875 jeffsteedman@rivieracounselling.com.au *To arrange an appointment, simply click the blue calendly button on our website. Book Now TAKE CHARGE of YOUR LIFE EN23847 With over thirty years of experience, Jeff has counselled people from all walks of life: From children to older adults, individuals, couples, families, and groups. If you're local Jeff can arrange a face-to-face meeting. He can also work via your favourite online platform e.g. Zoom.
| SNOWYRIVERMAIL.COM.AU 12 WEDNESDAY, JUNE 5, 2024 What advice would you give to younger men about mental health? Eddy: Be aware. Talk and mix with others. Doug: Interact with others and enjoy life. Find people with similar interests and maintain those friendships with regular catch ups. Clubs and sporting groups are great to meet people and socialise. Ian: If you feel like you are getting depressed talk to people like parents, a doctor or best mate. There is lots of literature out now which might help those who are struggling that don't have a support network. How do you maintain a positive mindset/ stay mentally healthy? Eddy: Mixing and associating with lots of people. Getting out and doing things with 10th 16th June friends. Don't take life too seriously. Doug: I honestly think having fun with mates and having a laugh. They say laughter is the best medicine. Ian: Growing up we didn't have the problems like they do these days. We just hang out, have a chat and take the micky out of each other. Edmund: I just come to chat at the Bowls Club Coffee Club. What do you think has changed about the discussions around mental health compared to when you were younger? Ian: Mental health isn't really discussed in this group. We see enough discussions on it in the newspaper and on TV. Doug: We don't focus on mental health here at the Coffee Club. Coming to Coffee Club is good for our mental health. We check in on each other's health in general both here and with other friendship groups. If someone is missing on the day we call to check in on them. Eddy: We come here to discuss and vent, we don't specifically call it mental health but are always checking in with each other and talking through things that may be happening in our lives. What changes have you made throughout your life to better your mindset? Ian: I changed my diet and stopped drinking, not that I wanted to though. Eddy: Maintaining contacts like if Bones misses a meeting I would think "I haven't rang Bones for a while I need to give him a call" Remembering who your friends are. Doug: Continuing social gatherings. Covid made us stronger in our friendships. Eddy: Yes, throughout all the lockdowns we all talked on the phone and probably talked more than we ever had, defiantly more than we would normally. MEN’S HEALTH WEEK VOX POP WITH BAIRNSDALE BOWLS CLUB’S COFFEE CLUB EN13800 PH: 0412 622 404 149 Macleod Street, Bairnsdale eastgippslandmyotherapy SCAN THE QR CODE TO BOOK! or give Aaron a call today. Ease your aches! EN23939
SNOWYRIVERMAIL.COM.AU | 13 WEDNESDAY, JUNE 5, 2024 10th 16th June International Men’s Health Week celebrates its 30th anniversary this year and takes place from Monday, June 10, to Sunday, June 16, 2024. This year the focus is on men’s health checks. Men’s Health Week is a great opportunity for organisations, workplaces and communities to focus on some of the different ways they can keep men and boys healthier. One way you can do this is by taking advantage of Australian Men’s Health Forum’s (AMHF) free Know Your Man Facts toolkits on a range of men’s health topics, such as men’s mental health, men’s heart health, exercise and men’s health, and mateship and men’s health. You can also watch for new Know Your Man Facts toolkit on Men’s Health Checks, which has been launched in time for Men’s Health Week 2024. Learn more about the Know Your Man Facts campaign on the AMHF website. TIME FOR YOUR CHECK UP Former local resident, Aaron Carrison, has returned to East Gippsland after almost a decade studying and working in the myotherapy space. Aaron has recently opened his own myotherapy clinic called Replay Recovery, located at 149a Macleod Street, Bairnsdale. Myotherapy is a non-invasive manual therapy that helps treat pain caused by injuries or issues with muscles, soft tissue and nerves. Myotherapy is ideal in the treatment of chronic pain originating from musculoskeletal dysfunctions/ disorder (injuries that affect movement and mobility), the leading source of disability in Australia. Myotherapy is a specialised type of remedial massage and therapists generally focus on hands-on techniques to decrease muscular pain. Aaron worked with aerial performers as both a therapist and a strength/conditioning coach. Most recently Aaron has worked in Fitzroy as both a myotherapist and a trainer with an emphasis on rehabilitation and return to sport. Aaron had the fortunate privilege to work in northern India with charity organisation Hands on Health - this provided some of the most challenging and rewarding moments. Outside of work Aaron’s activities have included football, cricket, obstacle racing, crossfit, gymnastics, and also having completed international and domestic marathons and surfed around the world. Through these experiences Aaron applies his specialised knowledge in human functional movement and injury diagnosis, treatment and prevention. A clinical myotherapist can successfully treat a number of injuries or conditions that result from traumatic or overuse injuries. These include: - Headaches and migraines - Neck pain - Back pain (upper and lower) - Nerve pain - Hip pain - Knee pain - Shoulder pain - Stress and tension - DOMS (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness) - Frozen shoulder - Shin splints - Tennis and golfers elbow Myotherapists use a variety of treatments for of pain. These include: - Trigger point therapy - Dry needling - Massage - Cupping - Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) - Hot and cold therapies - Stretching - Kinesio taping - PNF stretching For more information, check out Replay Recovery’s website or Facebook page. LOOSEN UP Aaron Carrison has recently opened his new myotherapy practice, Replay Recovery, at 149a Macleod Street, Bairnsdale. THE MORNING WALK As men reach the age of 50 and beyond, maintaining good health becomes increasingly important. While many may turn to vigorous exercise routines or strict diets, one often overlooked yet highly effective habit is simply taking a morning walk. In this education piece, we’ll explore the benefits of morning walks for men over 50 and why incorporating this simple activity into your daily routine can lead to improved physical and mental well-being. Heart health: Cardiovascular disease becomes more prevalent with age, but regular walking can significantly reduce the risk. Morning walks help lower blood pressure, improve circulation, and strengthen the heart muscle. Over time, this can lead to a reduced risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular issues. Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight becomes increasingly challenging as metabolism slows with age. However, brisk walking in the morning can boost metabolism, helping to burn calories and shed excess pounds. Combined with a balanced diet, regular walks can aid in weight management and improve overall body composition. Joint health: Aging often brings about joint stiffness and discomfort, particularly in weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips. Walking is a low-impact exercise that promotes joint flexibility. Morning walks help to ease joint pain, reduce inflammation, and maintain mobility, allowing men over 50 to stay active and independent. Bone density: Osteoporosis, or the loss of bone density, is a common concern for older adults, especially men. Weight-bearing exercises like walking stimulate bone formation and help preserve bone mass. By incorporating morning walks into their routine, men over 50 can reduce the risk of fractures and maintain strong, healthy bones. Mental clarity and mood enhancement: Physical activity isn’t just beneficial for the body; it also has profound effects on mental health. Morning walks provide an opportunity for quiet reflection and stress relief, promoting mental clarity and emotional wellbeing. Regular exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood boosters, helping to reduce anxiety, depression and cognitive decline. Social connection: Walking outdoors in the morning allows men over 50 to connect with nature and their community. Whether walking solo or with a friend or spouse, it provides an opportunity for social interaction and camaraderie. Building and maintaining social connections is vital for mental and emotional health, contributing to a sense of belonging and fulfillment. Improved sleep: Quality sleep becomes more elusive with age, but regular physical activity can promote better sleep patterns. Morning walks help regulate the body’s internal clock, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night. Men over 50 who incorporate walking into their daily routine often experience deeper, more restorative sleep. The benefits of walking in the morning for men over the age of 50 are numerous and far-reaching. From improved heart health and weight management to enhanced mental clarity and social connection, regular morning walks offer a holistic approach to overall well-being. So, lace up those shoes, step outside, and start reaping the rewards of your morning stroll! EXPLORE SOME FANTASTIC TRACKS Buchan Caves Reserve: The Buchan Caves Reserve boasts several scenic walks amid towering limestone formations and lush vegetation. The reserve offers short walks like the Royal Cave Loop Walk or the short walk to Fairy Cave. Longer walks like the Buchan River Walk provide a more immersive experience in the surrounding nature. Cape Conran Coastal Park: With its rugged coastline, Cape Conran Coastal Park offers breathtaking ocean views and diverse ecosystems. The park features several walking tracks, including the Sensory Eco-Walk, which guides you through coastal heathlands, woodlands, and along the stunning beaches. Snowy River National Park: This expansive park offers numerous walking opportunities amidst its rugged gorges, riverine forests, and alpine landscapes. The Orbost Boardwalk is a picturesque stroll along the Snowy River, while the Wilderness Coast Walk offers more challenging multi-day hikes. Lakes Entrance Foreshore: Lakes Entrance, situated at the edge of Ninety Mile Beach, provides a beautiful setting for a morning walk. Stroll along the foreshore, enjoying views of the Gippsland Lakes and the ocean. The Kalimna Jetty is a popular spot for birdwatching and enjoying the sunrise. Gippsland Lakes Discovery Trail: This trail offers a unique walking experience around the Gippsland Lakes, Australia’s largest inland waterway system. The trail passes through diverse landscapes, including wetlands, forests, and coastal dunes, providing ample opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. East Gippsland Rail Trail: For a leisurely walk or bike ride, consider the East Gippsland Rail Trail. This former railway line has been converted into a scenic trail that winds through picturesque countryside, charming towns, and historic railway trestle bridges. BAIRNSDALE BOWLS CLUB Incorporating Bairnsdale Croquet Club PHONE: 5152 3796 Cnr Grant Street & Pearson Street, Bairnsdale Open: Mon - Sat 9:30am - LATE | Sun 10am - LATE Get on the green & Bowl the Blues Away! EN24038
| SNOWYRIVERMAIL.COM.AU 14 WEDNESDAY, JUNE 5, 2024 Koho Sauna, located on the edge of the Gippsland Lakes, has quickly become a must-visit experience and is offering a special Men’s Health Week discount for first-time sauna goers. 10th 16th June RESET, REJUVENATE, RELAX Men, it’s time to immerse yourself with Koho Sauna. Koho Sauna is located on a floating vessel in the heart of Lakes Entrance. The spacious six-person sauna is wood-fired and has direct access, via a purpose built deck, to the Gippsland Lakes. This design allows guests to immerse themselves in the practice of contrast therapy, alternating between the heat of the sauna and the coolness of the lake. Sessions run for one hour, with two options offered: a public session for $40 or a private session for $150. “First and foremost, the team at Koho Sauna are delighted to be included in this dedicated feature on men’s health,” Koho Sauna owner Tom Stubbs said. “From our experience in our first six months of trading, we find women frequent our facility more often and are more empowered to invest their time and money into health and wellbeing. “We want to change that. “Enjoyed separately, sauna use and cold water immersion have far-reaching benefits but combined together, these benefits can be exacerbated by increasing the body’s tolerance to extreme temperature,” Tom said. Benefits of contrast therapy include: improvements in blood circulation leading to reduced fatigue and muscle soreness, better sleep, reductions in inflammation, elevated mood, decreased stress and anxiety and an improvement in the functioning of the immune system. “Focusing on men’s health in particular, whether due the effects of a labour intensive job or an old sporting injury, many men carry chronic injuries that can cause ongoing pain,” Tom said. “At Koho, we strongly feel that regular sauna and cold water immersion can have a significant positive impact on the health and longevity of many local men. “Gavin, a local male recently left this five star review: “I had been plagued with a sore back for two weeks prior and within the first half of my sauna I could feel some relief. I woke the next day completely pain free”. “We also now have a regular session booked for the Lakes Entrance Football Club, who find our sessions help them in their recovery from their sporting endeavours. “As part of this push to promote men’s health, we would like to offer local males 25 per cent off their first session with us. If you wish to make a booking, please visit our website and use code MALE25.” Wesley LifeForce gratefully acknowledges the funding provided by the Australian Government. MEETING DETAILS Saturday 13th July 2024, 10.00am to 12.30pm Room 2, The Hub, 27 Dalmahoy Street, Bairnsdale 3875. Please RSVP by July 7 to secure your spot. For inquiries and RSVP, please contact the EGSI chairperson Ross on 0427 568 586 or Emilie, Wesley Mission - Suicide Prevention Coordinator in Victoria on 0477 490 702 INVITATION Mornin Te Whether you’re a caring community member, a dedicated healthcare professional or someone with firsthand experience, your voice is invaluable to us. This gathering aims to create a cosy, inclusive atmosphere for us to exchange ideas, share experiences and explore various perspectives on how we can o er the best support to vulnerable individuals and families within our community. Wesley LifeForce Suicide Prevention and East Gippsland Suicide Intervention Inc. EN24193 K O H O FLOATING SAUNA KOHOSAUNA.COM.AU EN24198
SNOWYRIVERMAIL.COM.AU | 15 WEDNESDAY, JUNE 5, 2024 SHE’LL BE RIGHT? Australia is a nation known for its laid-back attitude and the iconic phrase "she'll be right". But when it comes to men's health, this relaxed approach can be dangerous. Men in Australia tend to shy away from regular check-ups, putting themselves at a higher risk of preventable health problems. Here's why prioritising regular health checks is crucial for Aussie blokes: Early detection saves lives: Many serious health conditions, like heart disease, prostate cancer and diabetes, often develop silently in their early stages. Regular check-ups allow doctors to detect these conditions early, when treatment is most effective. Early intervention can significantly improve chances of successful treatment and a longer, healthier life. Tailored advice for a better you: Health checks aren't just about screenings. They're an opportunity to discuss your lifestyle habits, family history and any concerns you may have. Your doctor can then provide personalised advice on how to manage your health risks and improve your overall well-being. Taking control of your health: Regular health checks empower you to take charge of your health. By understanding your health status and potential risks, you can make informed decisions about your lifestyle choices. This proactive approach can significantly improve your long-term health outcomes. Addressing the Aussie bloke mentality: Many men avoid check-ups due to a fear of bad news, a sense of invincibility, or simply not prioritising their health. Talking openly with your doctor about these concerns can help dispel myths and encourage a more proactive approach to health. Making checks convenient: The good news is there are plenty of resources available to make getting a health check convenient for Australian men. Medicare offers free health checks for men over 45, and many men's health organisations provide information and support. Taking action - It's easier than you think: Here are some easy steps to get started: Talk to your GP: Discuss your health concerns and schedule a regular check-up. Know your risk factors: Be aware of any family history of health conditions. Check for government initiatives: Explore Medicare benefits and government-funded health programs for men. Don't be afraid to ask questions: Your doctor is there to guide you and address any concerns you may have. Remember, prioritising your health isn't just about you – it's about your mates, your family, and living life to the fullest. So, ditch the "she'll be right" attitude and make regular health checks a priority. Your future self will thank you for it. 10th 16th June Men's Health Week is a time to raise awareness about the importance of men's physical and mental wellbeing. What better way to do that in Australia than with a classic barbie? Here's how to throw a sizzling Aussie barbie that sparks conversations about men's health: A BBQ WITH BITE: FOOD FOR THOUGHT Healthy choices: Balance out the classic snags with leaner options like grilled chicken or fish. Veggie skewers and healthy salads add colour and essential nutrients. Hidden champions: Sneak in health-boosting ingredients. Add chopped veggies to burger patties or experiment with healthier sausage alternatives. MORE THAN JUST SNAGS: ACTIVITIES FOR BODY AND MIND Get active: Set up a backyard cricket pitch, organise a frisbee throwing contest, or suggest a group walk before the barbie. Physical activity is a great way to bond and boost mental health. Open the conversation: Men often struggle to talk about their health concerns. Have some information pamphlets from men's health organisations like the Australian Men's Health Forum available. Consider including a "conversation starter" question on the invite, like "What's your favourite way to stay active?" A CELEBRATION OF MATESHIP: BUILDING CONNECTIONS Make it inclusive: Encourage men of all ages and backgrounds to attend. This is a chance to build connections and a strong support network. Guest speaker: Invite a local health professional or someone who's passionate about men's health to share a short, informal talk. THE FINISING TOUCHES: A BLOKE-FRIENDLY VIBE Donate and dedicate: Collect a small donation per person for a men's health charity. Let everyone know the cause you're supporting. The right atmosphere: Keep it relaxed and casual. Good music, comfortable seating, and some laughs go a long way. By incorporating these ideas, your Aussie barbie can be a fun and meaningful way to raise awareness about men's health. Fire up the barbie, spark important conversations, and celebrate the blokes in your life. FIRE UP FOR THE BLOKES The great Aussie barbecue is a great time for men to open up. (PS) Australia's largest mental health and fitness event, The Push-Up Challenge, is back in 2024, encouraging Australians to push for better mental health. Participants will take on 3249 push-ups across 24 days in June, putting the spotlight on the tragic number of lives lost to suicide in Australia in 2022. Thousands of Australians from all ages and walks of life participate in the event which engages people in mental health through connection, physical activity and education. "The Push-Up Challenge is a great way to get fit, connect with your community and learn about mental health, all while honouring lives tragically lost to suicide," founder of The Push-Up Challenge, Nick Hudson, said. "It's likely everyone will experience a mental health issue at some point in their lives, so by getting involved, we hope to break down the stigma attached to mental illness and help Australians be more proactive about their mental health." The Push-Up Challenge is a free event, and participants can choose to fundraise and support beneficiary partners Lifeline or headspace, or the charity which runs the event, Push for Better Foundation. Fundraising is an optional part of the event. "With our focus on mental health education, Lifeline's 24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention services, and headspace's early intervention services for young people, we'll build on our work that engages Australians in a holistic conversation about mental health," Mr Hudson said. Colin Seery, chief executive officer of Lifeline Australia said, "Just like Lifeline's services, The Push-Up Challenge is for everybody. The wonderful thing about the Challenge is how it connects people through exercise, while empowering them with ways they can make a positive difference to their own and others' mental health. "We are delighted to continue our partnership with The Push-Up Challenge to encourage Australians to not just talk about their mental health, but take proactive steps to learn how to best support each other and recognise when they might need to put their own hand up for help." In 2023, more than 215,000 participants completed 300 million push-ups and raised over $14.7 million for mental health. TAKE THE PUSH-UP CHALLENGE "We are proud to partner again with The Push-Up Challenge and Lifeline, working together to ensure young people across Australia know help is always available in tough times," chief executive, headspace, Jason Trethowan, said. Staying active is an important part of a healthy headspace, and The Push-Up Challenge is the perfect opportunity to get moving, connect with community and help get more people the support they need. With suicide the leading cause of death for young people in Australia, there's never been a more important time to support the work of headspace, Lifeline and Push-Up Challenge. Participants of all ages and abilities push-up while learning about mental health, with the number of daily push-ups changing to reflect a vital mental health fact. And if completing 3249 push-ups feels out of reach, participants can set their own pushup goal or choose exercise alternatives such as sit-ups, squats or tailored exercises, with progress tracked through a dedicated app. You can register for The Push-Up Challenge as an individual, team, or get your whole workplace, club, gym or school involved at www.thepushupchallenge.com.au. Senior Constable Raymond Day, Senior Sergeants James Wearne and Angelo Lando performing push-ups at the Bairnsdale Police Station as part of the ‘Push-up Challenge’ during 2022. PH:5152 4030 59 Main Street, Bairnsdale RAISE A GLASS FOR MENS HEALTH
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