#BeKindToYourMind Mental Wellbeing Week
16 June 2025
Empowering Communities to Prioritize Mental Health
Mental Wellbeing Week is made possible through a partnership between Myrtleford Football Netball Club, Alpine Health, Alpine Shire Council, Myrtleford P-12 College, Marian College & St Marys Primary School. The week is set to inspire, educate, and unite the Alpine Shire communities with a series of impactful events focused on mental health and wellness.
Alpine Health’s Chief Executive Officer, Rhys Gloury, said "Mental wellbeing touches every part of our lives — our families, our workplaces and our wider community. This week is about creating the space for real conversations, practical support, and reminding people that help is available. I’m proud that Alpine Health, together with our local partners, can play a role in bringing our community together to focus on something that matters to us all”. From insightful keynote speakers to engaging workshops, the week promises to foster awareness and provide practical tools for mental wellbeing across all ages.
Launch Event: Mental Wellbeing Dinner
Mental Wellbeing Week will kick off in style at the Ablett Pavilion with the highly anticipated Mental Wellbeing Dinner on Saturday, June 21, following the Wodonga Raiders game. The evening will feature Sharni Layton, renowned for her stellar career as an elite athlete in netball for the Diamonds and AFLW for Collingwood. As the keynote speaker, Sharni will share her inspiring journey through professional sports, shedding light on her struggles with mental health and the resilience she built along the way.
MFNC Wellbeing Team Chair John Pryor said, “, Having an elite athlete of the calibre of Sharni speaking at our dinner is exciting. Our footballers, netballers, coaches and gameday volunteers have wanted the opportunity to attend this function so this year we have moved to a dinner.”
NECC for the past 5 years has been a key supporter of the event. Managing Director Glenn Clarke said, “Recent tragedies in the AFL have placed an even greater focus on Mental Health. Anything our organization can do to support the work of community groups like the Myrtleford FNC in addressing this issue, is important”. I call out to other businesses and organisations to join us in supporting this important work.
Bookings can be made via the link here
Student and Community Engagement
Lance Picioane's Inspirational Talks
On Monday, June 23, and Tuesday, June 24, ex-AFL footballer Lance Picioane will host transformative sessions speaking to students from Year 5 through Year 12, as well as teachers and parents. These conversations aim to spark open dialogue about mental health challenges and provide valuable insights for fostering a supportive environment. The sessions will be complemented by classroom workshops for Year 7 and Year 9 students, supported by Alpine Health and local mental health clinicians, offering skills and knowledge to continue guiding our young people to live mentally well.
Myrtleford P-12 Principal Zlatko Pear said “All three schools are looking forward to this week. We are very excited to have Lance Picioane (Never Alone Foundation) as our keynote speaker. Lance’s presentations to students’ teachers and parents will include building strength connection and resilience for life. We thank the Myrtleford Lions, Rotary & RSL clubs for their support in bringing Lance to our community”
Community Wellness Workshop
Wednesday, June 25, will bring a unique opportunity to engage with first nations wellness practices through a free workshop facilitated by Lee Couch and Arkeria Rose Armstrong. This session made possible by Murray PHN and Alpine Health, is designed to celebrate and explore traditional methods of nurturing mental health, promoting cultural approaches and holistic wellbeing.
Bookings can be made via the link here
Closing Event: Community Session with Dr. Jodie Lowinger
The week will conclude on a powerful note with a free community session at 6pm, Friday 27 June, at The Pavilion in Bright proudly supported by Community Bank Bright and Alpine Shire Council. Dr Jodie Lowinger is renowned clinical psychologist and anxiety expert with expertise across adult, child, and adolescent mental health.
Dr. Jodie is on a mission to combat the rising tide of anxiety, stress, and burnout affecting communities across Australia. Her practical strategies and compassionate approach promise to leave a lasting impact on attendees.
Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from one of Australia’s most respected voices in youth mental health. All are welcome. Light supper provided. No bookings necessary.
Join Us for Mental Wellbeing Week
Mental Wellbeing Week is an invitation to all members of the community to prioritize mental health and wellbeing, embrace self-care, and support one another. With a diverse range of events and experts, this week is the perfect opportunity to take meaningful steps toward mental wellness.
The annual #BeKindToYourMind Shield game between Myrtleford FNC & Yarrawonga FNC will take place on July 12 at The R C McNamara Reserve in Myrtleford
Contact – John Pryor 0439303618
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