Community Rallies for Mental Health

LifeChanger Foundation is teaming up with the Coolangatta Football Club for a powerful community event on Saturday 26 July at Len Peak Oval, Coolangatta. The “Stand Together” Mental Health Round, themed “Bring a Mate for Mental Health”, is more than a day of football - it’s a show of solidarity in support of mental health awareness and early intervention. 

Designed to spark conversation and encourage people to look out for one another, the event will see players, families, supporters, local leaders and LifeChanger ambassadors gather to highlight the growing mental health challenges facing young Australians, particularly young men. With community sport playing such an important role in connection and wellbeing, this round serves as a timely reminder that mateship can be life-changing. 

The need has never been greater. In the past year, approximately 22% of Australians aged 16-85 experienced a mental disorder, with anxiety disorders being the most prevalent, affecting 17% of the population. Among young people aged 16-24, the situation is particularly concerning, as 39% reported experiencing a mental disorder in the previous 12 months. Notably, the prevalence among young females increased from 30% in 2007 to 46% in 2020-2022, while among young males, it rose from 23% to 32% over the same period. 1 Despite this, only a small proportion of people seek professional help, with stigma, cost and accessibility remaining major barriers. 

“We know the power of community sport in connecting people, and this round is about turning that connection into meaningful support,” said Scott Watters, CEO and Founder of LifeChanger. “By creating safe spaces where people can talk, listen, and check in on their mates, we’re helping to break down stigma and build a more resilient community.” 

The day will feature women’s, reserves and seniors football matches, kicking off from 9:30am, alongside family-friendly entertainment, exciting giveaways, appearances by AFL and sporting ambassadors, and a half-time long-kick competition with prizes to be won. 

LifeChanger’s work focuses on building strong foundations for young people through community wellbeing partnerships that support self-esteem, connection, and purpose. Events like the Stand Together Round reinforce these goals and provide a safe, inclusive platform for positive conversations. 

Everyone is encouraged to bring a mate, wear their club colours with pride, and be part of a united community effort to support mental health. For more information about LifeChanger or to get involved, visit LifeChanger events hub or explore how we work with community partners to deliver impact

¹ https://www.aihw.gov.au/mental-health/overview/prevalence-and-impact-of-mental-illness?