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Tee-Up Golf Day 2021 in Traralgon raises $20,000 for suicide prevention and mental health with help of Russell Northe and Rotary ClubMember for Morwell, Russell Northe has spoken of his pride with regards to the business and community support that was received for the 2021 Tee-Up for Mental Health Day to which Mr Northe co-hosted along with the Rotary Club of Traralgon. By news@gippsland - 1st March 2022 - Back to News Mr Russell Northe said that the purpose of the day was to raise awareness around mental health and suicide prevention, whilst raising funds for key service providers in the region including: - Lifeline Gippsland
- Talking Mental Health
- Rotary Club of Traralgon
"The support we had from generous sponsors, donors and players was really overwhelming, we simply couldn't have achieved the great outcome that we did without their willingness to jump on board and support this important cause" Mr Northe commenced. 
Mental Health as we know is an issue that keeps growing by the day, and one key component of helping to recognise the signs of mental health distress in someone close to you is to complete a Mental Health First Aid training course Support and assistanceMr Northe said, "To raise just over $20,000 in the current economic climate is an extraordinary feat in anyone's language and is a demonstration of the goodwill and generosity that exists in our community whilst also acknowledging the importance of local mental health and suicide prevention programs in our community." "In conjunction with the Rotary Club of Traralgon I am absolutely thrilled to be able to assist in the handing over of more than $10,000 to Lifeline Gippsland so they can continue to enhance their critical suicide prevention programs." "In addition more than $10,000 is being allocated to the Talking Mental Health/Rotary Club partnership who are delivering first-aid mental health training across the region, with Rotary utilising some of those same funds to provide support and assistance to vulnerable persons in our community including the homeless and our youth" Mr Northe said. Support in needed servicesCEO of Lifeline Gippsland, Michelle Possingham said "The staff and volunteers at Lifeline Gippsland would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Russell Northe, Rotary Club of Traralgon, sponsors and players of the 2021 Tee-Up for Mental Health Golf Day." "This has been a year when Lifeline's crisis support services have been needed more than ever before in our 58 year history. Month after month we received a record breaking number of calls from people who needed someone to talk to." "While this put a lot of strain on the service we were relieved that people were reaching out for help, rather than trying to get through these challenging times alone. What many people don't know is that Lifeline Gippsland receives only a quarter of the funding that it takes to run the 13 11 14 crisis phone line." Ms Possingham said. Enabling the trainingMs Possingham also said, "It is because of the generosity of people like you; however it was that you contributed, that we can keep our lights on as we work toward our commitment of ensuring that nobody has to face their darkest moment alone." "One of the biggest challenges we face is the cost of training the people who answer the phones. Our training spans twelve months, and it costs almost $3000 to train each person. We charge only a small portion of this fee." "The money that was raised through the golf day will enable us to train five new Crisis Supporters who will respond to calls on the 13 11 14 national crisis line. The people who call us mothers, fathers, daughters, sons, sisters, brothers. They are people who are hurting." Ms Possingham continued. Providing hope for the peopleMs Possingham said, "Thanks to you, our service can continue to support them through some of life's most difficult experiences, and provide the hope that people need to face the next moment, day, week or year. Each Crisis Supporter volunteers at least 94 hours each year, answering a call every half hour on average." "This means that the funds raised will mean that almost 1000 calls will be answered, in their first year of volunteering alone. Most of our volunteers stay with us for many years, so the lives that you have saved by supporting this day is immeasurable". Ms Possingham said. Proceeds of the funds raisedPeter Wallis, President of the Rotary Club of Traralgon said "We are delighted at the success of the Golf day and the funds we raised to further the good work of Lifeline Gippsland and the Traralgon Rotary Club in our community We intend to put half our funds to assist in the facilitation of more Mental Health awareness training and the remaining funds to assist in programs for the youth and homeless in our community." "We have recently accepted the challenge to prepare lunches for students that present to school without food to sustain them through a day of learning life skills. We are also looking how best we can assist the homeless as we are able, so the funds raised on the golf day will make a big difference to the lives of those doing it tough in our region". Mr Wallis said. Youth mental health first aid trainingAnn Hamden of Talking Mental Health said "The money raised from the Tee-Up for Mental Health Golf Day will enable even more local people to complete Youth Mental Health First Aid training (YMHFA).The more people we can train to look out for signs of mental health problems and also deal with crisis situations, the safer our young people will be in our community." "This evidence based training focuses on improving mental health literacy and early intervention. YMHFA is aimed at adults who work, live or care for young people aged 12-25 such as parents, sports coaches, school support staff, community group leaders and youth workers. Adolescence is a time of important change and development. It is also the time when mental health problems can first emerge." "During high school years, mental health problems are among the leading causes of falling grades, problems with friends, and relationships, substance use or abuse and they can have lifelong impact. We want to reduce these risks as much as we can by having adults confident, comfortable and skilled to deal with young people and their mental health. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this year's Tee-Up for Mental Health golf day." Ms Hamden said. Supporting individuals and familiesMr Northe also said "I wish to give a big shout out to the ACSO crew who volunteered their time and effort to help out on the day. These amazing people do an incredible job in supporting individuals and families dealing with drug, alcohol and mental health challenges in our community. We appreciate all that you do and thank you for being part of our golf day". "In closing, I just want to say how proud I am of every person who contributed to this event, as the funds raised will make a positive difference to organisations who deliver critical services in our community, and I don't think it's a bridge too far in saying we might just save lives as a result of our collective efforts" Mr Northe concluded. Pictures from Russell Northe MP website.
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: news@gippsland.com
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Melina Bath encourages regional cricket clubs, schools, and community groups to apply for Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund grants supporting facility upgrades and inclusive participation opportunities. Applications close 27 March 2026. - Spring flows planned to support native fish migration and river health across West Gippsland
West Gippsland CMA's Environmental Water team is planning Spring river flows to support native fish migration, enhance river health, and balance environmental care with community enjoyment of waterways. - Community-led partnerships restore Kugerungmome/Powlett River catchment health on Bunurong Country, from source to sea
Community, Traditional Owners and agencies are restoring the Kugerungmome/Powlett River, delivering $1 million in on-ground works to protect culture, biodiversity and water quality across a 50,000-hectare catchment on Bunurong Country. - Latrobe City outdoor pools set to reopen for summer with weather-based opening days ahead
Latrobe City’s outdoor pools reopen 29 November, operating on days forecast at 25 degrees celsius. Moe and Yallourn North offer family-friendly facilities, with Yallourn North free. Council highlights community enjoyment and water-safety benefits. - New drinking fountains installed in Sale and Briagolong Parks to promote health, sustainability and community wellbeing
Gippsland Water and Wellington Shire Council have installed two new drinking fountains in Sale and Briagolong, promoting health, sustainability, and reusable bottles. Featuring artwork by Gunai artist Alice Pepper, they support community wellbeing. - New drinking fountains installed in Sale and Briagolong Parks to promote health, sustainability and community wellbeing
Gippsland Water and Wellington Shire Council have installed two new drinking fountains in Sale and Briagolong, promoting health, sustainability, and reusable bottles. Featuring artwork by Gunai artist Alice Pepper, they support community wellbeing. - Baw Baw Shire Council awarded $140,000 in community grants to support sustainable, healthy, and thriving community projects
Council has awarded over $140,000 in Community Grants to 36 groups, supporting events, projects, and minor capital works that strengthen community sustainability, health, and wellbeing through not-for-profit initiatives. - Melina Bath invites local community and sporting clubs to apply for Regional All Abilities Grants by 19 November 2025
Melina Bath encourages regional clubs to apply for 2025 Regional All Abilities Participation Grants, supporting inclusive programs, specialised equipment, workforce, and disability-led initiatives. Applications close 19 November 2025. - Tim Bull slams Labor's cuts to 'Youth Crime Prevention', unveils $100M Safer Communities Plan
Gippsland East MP Tim Bull criticised Labor's youth crime prevention cuts, promoting The Nationals' $100 million Safer Communities Plan combining tougher laws with prevention programs to improve safety and restore community confidence. - Mallacoota’s Bryce Watts-Parker wins 2025 NextGen Landcare Award for inspiring environmental leadership, recovery projects
Mallacoota’s Bryce Watts-Parker won the 2025 NextGen Landcare Award for leading environmental projects, including the Endemic Garden and community nursery, inspiring ecological recovery and community engagement in East Gippsland. - Darren Chester honours all who served, remembering lives lost, wounded, and the enduring impact on Darwin’s community
Australia marks Bombing of Darwin Day on February 19, honouring more than 240 killed in 1942 and recognising wartime sacrifice, resilience, and the ongoing need to properly resource Defence personnel. - Danny O’Brien congratulates local football and netball clubs recognised through this year’s TAC Club Rewards Program
Gippsland South football and netball clubs have secured TAC Club Rewards funding, promoting safe driving and road safety awareness through community-led initiatives supported by AFL Victoria. - Free visitor information materials help East Gippsland businesses guide visitors quickly and easily summer
East Gippsland Shire Council is providing free QR-code posters, stickers and magnets to help businesses quickly connect visitors with maps, attractions, events and essential information via the Visit East Gippsland website. - East Gippsland CMA hosts community event on Snowy River estuary trials and environmental flow improvements
East Gippsland CMA, with NSW DCCEEW, monitored Snowy River estuary flows to improve health, maintain open entrance, and share findings at community event 11 March 2026, Marlo Angling Club. - Bass Coast Shire Council invites community to help shape the next stage of Climate Action Plan at Berninneit in Cowes 25 October 2026
Bass Coast Shire Council invites the community to a Climate Action Plan Review Workshop to reflect on progress, share ideas, and help shape the next five years of local climate action. - South Gippsland immunisation sessions extended with extra times to support community after Leongatha Healthcare Centre closure
Following Leongatha Healthcare Centre closure, immunisation sessions have been extended, offering full-range vaccines for children, adults, pregnant women, and at-risk groups, with extra times available for community bookings. - Darren Chester urges Gippslanders to support local artisans, makers, and small businesses this holiday season
Federal Member Darren Chester encourages Gippslanders to shop local this Christmas, supporting artisans, makers, and small businesses like Emporium 3844, boosting the regional economy and celebrating community talent. - Join the conversation and help shape South Gippsland and other council projects, programs and initiatives
Join the conversation this spring! Share your ideas on South Gippsland's future through community consultations, including Pre-Prep, Draft Plans, Governance Rules, and the 2026/27 Budget. - Baw Baw Shire Council hosts free ‘Look Over the Farm Gate - Help a Mate!’ barbecues supporting farmers’ wellbeing
Baw Baw Shire free ‘Look Over the Farm Gate - Help a Mate!’ barbecues support farmers’ wellbeing, offering connection, meals, and access to mental health, financial, and drought assistance resources. - Gippsland Water invests $550,000 to upgrade Peterkin Street sewer pump station, ensuring reliable wastewater services for Traralgon
Gippsland Water is investing $550,000 to upgrade Traralgon largest sewer pump station, replacing ageing pipes to ensure reliable wastewater services for 5,200 households. Works are underway and due for completion in September. - Labor provides rebates and programs to help regional households switch from costly gas to cheaper electric appliances
The Allan Labor government is supporting 1,183 regional households impacted by Solstice's gas network closure with rebates, discounts, and programs to help them transition to cheaper, energy-efficient electric appliances. - Danny O'Brien urges Gippslanders to honour veterans and support the annual poppy appeal this Remembrance Day
Danny O'Brien is urging Gippslanders to honour veterans this Remembrance Day and support the annual Poppy Appeal, helping fund vital services for veterans and their families across the region. - South Gippsland Shire Council seeks community feedback on 50-year Fish Creek Football Netball Club lease proposal by 25 February 2026
South Gippsland Shire Council invites community submissions on a proposed 50-year lease to Fish Creek Football Netball Club for new clubrooms. Submissions close 5pm, Wednesday 25 February 2026, addressed to the CEO. - East Gippsland Shire backs $15M Bairnsdale Airport upgrade to boost emergency response and healthcare services regionally
East Gippsland Shire Council has backed a $15 million Bairnsdale Airport upgrade, extending the runway to boost emergency response, healthcare services, and regional aviation, supported by government funding and health agencies. - Latrobe City Council and Gippsland partners launch 'No Filter: Real Stories' vaping prevention campaign created by and for young people
Latrobe City Council, with Gippsland councils and GRPHU, launches No Filter: Real Stories, a youth-designed vaping prevention campaign sharing honest, relatable local experiences to reduce harm and empower Gippsland young people. - Melina Bath demands Allan government deliver promised 'Youth Crime Prevention Program' for Latrobe Valley
The Nationals are demanding the Allan government deliver the long-promised Youth Crime Prevention Program in Latrobe Valley, addressing rising youth crime, restoring diversion programs, and supporting at-risk young people effectively. - Danny O’Brien encourages missed applicants to apply for round two Sporting Club Grants funding opportunities by 7 April 2026
Many Gippsland South sporting clubs and community groups secured 2025–26 Sporting Club Grants funding, boosting facilities, equipment, and volunteers, with Danny O’Brien encouraging unsuccessful clubs to apply for round two. - Farm fencing grants protect 300 hectares of biodiversity and boost waterway health across West Gippsland
Over 300 hectares of farmland will be fenced through West Gippsland CMA's farm fencing grants, protecting waterways, biodiversity, and livestock while supporting sustainable farming and revegetation across the catchment. - Morwell River Ward Councillor Tracie Lund resigns, prompting Latrobe City by-election and community engagement process
Morwell River Ward Councillor Tracie Lund has resigned from Latrobe City Council. A by-election will be held, with the VEC managing nominations and voting to fill the vacancy. - Darren Chester welcomes new all-abilities ramp at Seaspray Surf Life Saving Club, enhancing accessibility and inclusion
Federal Member Darren Chester welcomed the new all-abilities ramp at Seaspray Surf Life Saving Club, enhancing accessibility, inclusion, and community participation, supported by local business and the #lovegippsland Stronger Communities Grant. - Darren Chester joins East Gippsland community to honour fallen Victoria police officers on Remembrance Day
Darren Chester joined the East Gippsland community for National Police Remembrance Day in Bairnsdale, honouring Victoria Police officers who lost their lives and recognising those who continue to serve. - Nationals' $100M Safer Communities Plan targets crime crisis with tough laws and prevention programs across Gippsland
Martin Cameron backed a $100 million Safer Communities Plan, promising tougher laws and prevention programs to tackle Victoria's crime crisis, restore community safety, and support at-risk youth, contrasting Labor's cuts. - Martin Cameron urges Energy Minister to lift outdated coal overlays blocking 2000 new homes in Traralgon
Nationals MP Martin Cameron criticised Minister Lily D'Ambrosio for refusing to review outdated coal overlays blocking 2000 new homes in Traralgon, despite studies confirming land stability for development. - Melina Bath has raised concerns in Parliament about Emerald Secondary College closures and urged fire upgrades
Melina Bath raises concerns over Emerald Secondary College closures during high fire danger days, urging Allan government to improve fire resilience and keep schools safely open, reducing learning disruption for students. - Baw Baw Shire Council invites community to join Biodiversity Blitz and help shape first nature plan from 1-30 September 2025
Baw Baw Shire Council invites residents to celebrate Biodiversity Month by joining the Biodiversity Blitz, recording local species, attending walk-and-talk events, and contributing ideas to shape the region's first Nature Plan. - East Gippsland Council opens impact grants applications to support local community and environmental projects
East Gippsland Council’s Impact Grants program offers $3,001 - $20,000 to community groups for projects strengthening communities or supporting environmental sustainability, with applications closing 31 October 2025. - Darren Chester celebrates Community College Gippsland’s new Morwell Facility supporting education and regional workforce development
Darren Chester welcomed Community College Gippsland’s new Morwell facility, celebrating its role in empowering students, supporting vocational education, and strengthening Gippsland’s workforce and regional communities. - Bass Coast announces fee-free green waste period to help residents prepare for upcoming fire season
Bass Coast residents can dispose of domestic green waste for free from 1 - 23 November 2025, helping the community prepare properties and reduce fire hazards ahead of the summer season. - Darren Chester urges Gippslanders to support local businesses this Christmas, boosting jobs and celebrating regional products
Federal Member Darren Chester urges Gippslanders to support local businesses this Christmas, boosting jobs, celebrating regional produce, and helping small enterprises like Sale’s "Love in a Jar" thrive across the community. - Martin Cameron confirms Labor’s promised Kosciuszko and Bank Street underpass, planned for 2023, will no longer proceed
Traralgon students remain at risk crossing train tracks and busy roads after Labor abandons promised pedestrian underpass, with Nationals’ MP Martin Cameron urging urgent delivery of a safe solution. - Have your say on the 2027 transition to Pre-Prep and help shape early learning in South Gippsland
South Gippsland Shire Council is seeking feedback from parents and carers to help shape how the Victorian government's 2027 Pre-Prep program is delivered locally to meet community needs. - East Gippsland Water donates hay to support farmers through Lions Club ‘Need for Feed’ program
East Gippsland Water donated two semi loads of hay to support drought-affected farmers in Victoria’s south-west, demonstrating sustainability, community support, and its commitment to recycling and environmental stewardship. - Omeo Mountain Bike Park officially opens, offering 114km trails, boosting local tourism, recreation, and economy
Omeo Mountain Bike Park officially opens Friday, featuring 114 km trails, community events, amenities, and safety measures, transforming the town into a year-round alpine adventure and tourism destination. - Labor government delivers $2.73M Sale Hospital upgrade, modernising Community Services building for Gippsland healthcare staff
The Allan Labor government is delivering a $2.73 million upgrade to Sale Hospital's historic Community Services Building, modernising facilities for healthcare workers, patients, and students through the Regional Health Infrastructure Fund. - Wellington Shire Council invites community to celebrate Parks Week with various free events from 28 February to 8 March 2026
Wellington Shire celebrates Parks Week 2026 with free and low-cost events, including Baby’s Day Out, fitness sessions, markets, walks, and family activities, encouraging community connection and outdoor enjoyment. - Gippsland Water launches pop-up events inviting Latrobe Valley residents to help shape future water services and planning decisions
Gippsland Water will host pop-up events across the Latrobe Valley, inviting community feedback to help shape future water services, pricing, and infrastructure planning. - Darren Chester welcomes $2.7M investment in cutting-edge MRI technology at Bairnsdale Regional Health Service
A $2.7 million upgrade at Bairnsdale Regional Health Service includes Australia's first MRI unit of its kind, improving diagnosis accuracy, patient comfort, and access to affordable, high-quality local healthcare. - Celebrate Korumburra Railway Precinct new skatepark with skate clinics, demos, activities and community giveaways
Celebrate the new Korumburra Railway Precinct skatepark on Friday, 13 March, 3.30pm, with skate clinics, demonstrations, group activities, and giveaways for skateboarders, roller skaters, scooter, and bike riders. - Wellington Shire Council offers free green waste disposal to help residents reduce fire hazards this season
Wellington Shire Council is urging property owners, particularly in coastal communities, to prepare for the fire danger period by taking advantage of its Fire Ready No-Fee Green Waste Disposal program. - Danny O'Brien urges Gippslanders to donate early to Giving Trees and help bring Christmas joy to foster children
Gippslanders are encouraged to donate early to A Better Life for Foster Kids' Giving Trees, helping ensure every child in out-of-home care receives a Christmas gift this festive season. - Bass Coast Council leaders advocating events, infrastructure, recreation, coastal protection, public transport, and environmental conservation
Bass Coast Council leaders held 12 Parliament meetings, advocating for events, infrastructure, recreation, coastal protection, public transport, and environmental conservation, seeking government support and funding for key community projects. - Latrobe City Council to negotiate Old Methodist Church sale following community consultation and support heritage reuse
Following community consultation, Latrobe City Council will negotiate the Old Methodist Church sale to Traralgon Historical Society, supporting heritage reuse and allocating $86,000 funding contingent on securing a VicTrack lease. - Latrobe City Council seeks community feedback on Draft Economic Development Strategy 2025 - 2031 to help shape long-term economic growth
Latrobe City Council invites community feedback on its Draft Economic Development Strategy 2025-2031, aiming to build a diverse, inclusive, resilient economy, create jobs, attract investment, and shape the city’s future. - Chairo and Heyfield students gain real-world political insights through engaging discussions with Darren Chester
Federal MP Darren Chester met Year 5-6 students in Traralgon and Canberra, discussing democracy, global affairs, law-making and political life, with students showing strong curiosity and insight during engaging civil conversations. - Latrobe City Council extends partnership with Tennis Australia to host 2027-2031 junior championships
Latrobe City Council will host the 2027–2031 AGL Loy Yang Traralgon Junior International, showcasing elite under-18 tennis, supporting the community, and strengthening the region’s reputation for world-class sporting events. - Latrobe City invites community to celebrate International Rose Garden Festival Morwell with lights, music and fun on 7-8 November 2025
Latrobe City Council invites everyone to the free International Rose Garden Festival Morwell, 7-8 November 2025, featuring night lights, live music, workshops, market stalls, performers, and over 4,000 blooming roses. - Gippsland Water begins Warragul wastewater plant upgrade to support growth, improve efficiency, and reduce environmental impact
Gippsland Water has begun a two-year Warragul wastewater plant upgrade, replacing ageing infrastructure, improving operations, reducing carbon emissions, and enhancing environmental outcomes to support rapid regional growth. - Community invited to join Walhalla project working groups shaping tourism and business opportunities for World Heritage future
Baw Baw Shire Council invites community members to join Tourism, Infrastructure, or Business Support Project Working Groups for Walhalla, helping shape sustainable development linked to the Victorian Goldfields World Heritage Bid. - Darren Chester meets new BRHS CEO Peter Abraham to discuss future opportunities for East Gippsland Healthcare
Darren Chester met new BRHS CEO Peter Abraham to discuss healthcare challenges, commend local innovations improving patient care, and strengthen collaboration to deliver high-quality, accessible health services across East Gippsland.
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