Tasmania Police and Prison Service staff will face off at Glenorchy’s KGV Oval for their annual charity football match supporting mental health awareness.
The event, now in its fifth year, brings together frontline workers to highlight the importance of mental health conversations in high-pressure professions.
Senior Constable Joe Mizzi said mental health remains a vital focus for both services and staff regularly face emotionally challenging situations that can take a significant toll over time.
“Supporting the wellbeing of those who protect and care for our communities is essential to ensuring they can continue to perform their roles safely, compassionately and effectively,” he said.
This year’s match supports Stay ChatTY, a Tasmanian organisation promoting positive mental health and encouraging open conversations about wellbeing.
The organisation’s message that reaching out and staying connected can save lives resonates strongly across both services, organisers said.
Sports Program Officer for SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY Tom Mullane-Grant said sport creates natural opportunities for mental health conversations.
“Sport has a unique way of bringing people together, and events like this create safe, informal spaces where conversations around mental health can start naturally,” he said.
“Those working in both services carry significant responsibility every day. Seeing them champion mental health sends a strong message about looking after ourselves and each other.”
He encouraged the community to attend and show support for workers in demanding roles.
Men’s and women’s matches will both be played on March 29, with the men’s game kicking off at 10:30am and women’s at 12:15pm.
Entry costs a gold coin donation with a BBQ and raffle held to help raise additional funds for the cause.
