With more than two in five Australians estimated to experience mental illness over the course of their lifetime, mental health is one of the most far-reaching community issues.
Ocean Grove Bowling Club (OGBC) stepped up to make a significant impact this week, presenting a donation of nearly $20,000 to proactive mental health initiative Bowl For Your Lives.
The funds – $19,306.40, to be exact – were raised through an Australia Day tournament at the newly redeveloped club facilities, with 144 players and more than 50 crowd members contributing through entry fees, by purchasing t-shirts or taking part in a raffle and auction.
Bowl For Your Lives co-founders Shane Hafner and Cameron Ryan, both former police officers experiencing mental health challenges related to PTSD, found reconnection and resilience through the sport.
The not-for-profit organisation, now the major charity partner for state governing body Bowls Victoria, provides mental health programs, raises money for communities and individuals affected by crises and promotes the benefits of bowls as a path to wellbeing.
Mr Hafner, who is also an OGBC member, said the support of his club was “huge” to the fast-growing charity.
“Ocean Grove is a very well-known and successful club, and I think the essence of why it is so successful is the buy-in from the members and the club itself,” he said.
“I’ve had numerous conversations with other members where they’ve been able to open up about their battles of those of someone close to them. And they do that because they know they’re not going to be judged and they feel safe.
“That’s what Bowl For Your Lives is all about.”
