In Focus: Mental Wellbeing Award

Mental Wellbeing — Winner: Club York

Club York was the 2024 winner in the Mental Wellbeing category for their support of the Sydney Male Choir, an organisation which has existed for more than a century.

Men of all ages get together to rehearse and perform, providing an opportunity for social connection and inclusion, aiding in their mental health.

When the organisation fell on hard times during COVID, Club York stepped in to support them financially, which included the provision of free rehearsal space. 

This ongoing relationship has ensured the group’s long-term survival, with the singers now having a permanent space to call home — which was duly recognised at the Clubs & Community Awards.

“We really weren’t expecting to win an award at all, but to be able to just be a contributor to the good stuff that clubs are doing is just fantastic, and we’re really proud of that,” said Club York CEO Angus Rimmer.

Mental Wellbeing — Highly Commended: Liverpool Catholic Club

The first Highly Commended in this category was awarded to Liverpool Catholic Club for their partnership with the charity Stand Tall, which aims to improve youth mental wellbeing.

Their initiatives equip young people with essential skills such as resilience, the ability to combat bullying and the art of making informed decisions.

Last June, Club staff volunteered at a special Stand Tall event at ICC Sydney, attended by more than 6000 students, teachers and volunteers, which helped to ensure its smooth running.

The Club’s collaboration with Stand Tall was recognised with a Highly Commended in the Mental Wellbeing category.

“Youth mental health issues are a big program in our area and we wanted to do something for our local children,” said Liverpool Catholic Club President Greg Richardson.

“[The Award] is a recognition of the hard work we do in our community, but as everyone’s said tonight, it’s a recognition of what all clubs do in the communities around the place as well.”

Mental Wellbeing — Highly Commended: Seagulls Club

The second Highly Commended in this category was awarded to Seagulls Club for their support of the Veterans Music Venture, which was formed after a local veteran, Shaun Spain, sadly took his own life. 

The program brings veterans together on a weekly basis and offers encouragement, support, companionship and fellowship.

Seagulls supports the Veterans Music Venture through a $10,000 ClubGRANT, as well as offering a space within the Club to carry out rehearsals and perform their end-of-program concert.

“Thanks to the incredible generosity of Seagulls Club… for the veterans, not only has it been life changing but life saving,” said Veterans Music Venture founder Ian Grace.