MENtal Brekky inspires proactive approach to mental health
October 30, 2024
Anna and Aaron Schultz (centre) with College principal Steven O’Connor and Chris Yeung Fund committee members Peter Flynn, John Fogarty, Simon Dwyer (Chair), Oliver Yeung, Paul Callahan and Steve Moneghetti. Absent: Stewart Hynes. Pictures: Halina Sztynda
The Chris Yeung Fund MENtal Brekky brought together the St Patrick’s College community for a morning of reflection and inspiration on 18 October.
Headlined by founder of The Outback Mind Foundation, Aaron Schultz, the event was attended by 150 guests consisting of students, parents, staff and community members, all committed to supporting mental health awareness and raising funds for the Chris Yeung Fund.
Schultz shared his journey of establishing The Outback Mind Foundation (TOMF), a grassroots charity focused on empowering men in regional Australia to lead healthier, more consciously connected lives, following his own mental health struggles.
TOMF’s mission is not only to improve men’s mental health but also to prevent domestic violence and educate young men on emotional wellbeing.
Supported by the Catholic Diocese of Ballarat Bishop’s Charitable Fund and GJ Gardner Homes, the MENtal Brekky celebrated its eighth year as a platform for meaningful conversations around mental health.
Guest speaker Aaron Schultz, founder of The Outback Mind Foundation.
In his address, Schultz stressed the importance of taking a proactive rather than reactive approach to mental health, aiming to create a future where people can learn to cope with life’s challenges before they become overwhelming.
“The more we can get the message out there and the more we can learn to be proactive, I think we’re going to have better outcomes moving forward,” he said, highlighting that any challenge can be overcome.
“I don’t want to see more grandkids grow up without a grandfather, or more kids grow up without a father. We all have a unique gift, and we don’t want to throw that away.”
Established in memory of St Patrick’s College alumnus Chris Yeung, who completed Year 12 in 1981, the Fund seeks to support families within the College community where a father is experiencing mental illness.
Since 2016, the fund has provided essential fee relief for over 20 students, ensuring their continued education at St Patrick’s College amidst financial hardships.
Chris Yeung, whose life was impacted by mental illness, left a legacy that inspires the College community to continue supporting mental health awareness, compassion, and resilience.
This year’s MENtal Brekky, held in the OCA Pavilion, served as both a poignant reminder and a call to action, urging the St Patrick’s College community to champion mental health and wellbeing proactively.