Next Week
Official Visit - Assistant Governor Julianne Bartels
Guest Speaker - Julianne Bartels
Last Week - Beyond Blue Night
Guest speakers:
- Tim Stewart - Beyond Blue
- Michael Barlow - Werribee Football
- Jack Fitzpatrick - Werribee Football Club
Guests:
- Hoppers Crossing Under 18 team
- Werribee Districts Under 18 team
- Harold Dixon - Werribee Football Club'
- Gerald Fustuca - ISCW
- Andrew Exton & McKillop Students
Tim Stewart gave a powerful presentation on his mental health issues. Tim was living on a farm in Albury in 2008, and working with in a senior role with a large multi national. Following the global financial crisis, Tim's business was heavily impacted, requiring Tim to make half of his staff redundant. Tim couldn't cope and had a mental breakdown.
He sought the help of a psychiatrist but was unable to return to the pressure of his work. The stigma of his illness resulted in a loss of confidence, and ultimately his marriage.
Tim is able to manage his illness, and now devotes much of his time as a volunteer speaker with Beyond Blue.
Tim's message was to seek help and not try to deal with the issue alone. Iff in need contact Beyond Blue 1300 114 636 for assistance.
Michael Barlow
Michael spoke about his career, and his passion to play AFL football. Michael was overlooked on a number of occassions. In In 2008 Michael trained for 6 weeks with St Kilda who were going to draft him as a rookie. He was overlooked again, but was drafted by Fremantle the following year.
Michael spoke of the issues facing players drafted interstate where they have no friends or family. He also spoke of the importance of his studies for a degree, that give him something to fall back on if life in football stops.
Jack Fitzpatrick
Jack spoke about his time at Melbourne, Casey & Hawthorn.
Jack spoke about the impact on players of injuries & illnesses. Jack suffered 7 or 8 concussions, as well as being diagnosed with diabetes. He spoke of the pressures players are under today.
Jack spoke passionately about social media, and the impact on players. He strongly recommended that young players only mix on social media with people they know, and not read the vitriolic rants from supporters.
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