THE outdated condition of some of Albury's mental health services has motivated one team to take part in the Hume Bank City2City Run Walk.
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Friends of Nolan House is made up of 20-community members who believe there is a desperate need for more funding for mental health.
Paul Summerfield started the group when he realised the neglected state of Nolan House after a relative stayed there.
Thousands of participants will take off from QEII Square at 8am for the event on February 21.
I think community here is wonderful with mental health and the more things like this to raise awareness the better.
- Stuart Baker
Team member Annette Baker said members of the group had met with Health Minster Sussan Ley and Member for Albury Greg Aplin, but participating in the run was another way to get vital funds to the services.
“I don’t think anyone in our team is really athletic, but we'd like to support the event because it’s a great local initiative,” she said.
“I think having organised our two events, The Big Splash and Winter Solstice, which are very dear to my heart and having such amazing support from community, it makes you realise we are supported, so let’s support others.
“These funds are very important, I think mental health is very under funded, there is no parity in funding with mental health.”
To unwind after the event, Music for Mental Health will be held the same day at Beer DeLuxe in Albury.
Bands from the Border will play live from 3pm and a $20 entry donation will support Australians for Mental Health, Headspace Albury Wodonga and Survivors of Suicide and friends.
The excitement among the community is beginning to gain momentum as participants’ race numbers begin to arrive in mailboxes across the Border.
Meanwhile, the City2City committee has put a call-out for volunteers to help at the event.
Participants are also being encouraged to register early for catering purposes, prior to the February 20 deadline.
People of all fitness levels can organise a team, or enter individually to complete a 7.5km or 10km course ending at the Water Tower in Wodonga.
Another team member Stuart Baker said he hoped to start training soon.
“I’m not very trained but I'll try the 10km course,” he said.
“I think community here is wonderful with mental health and the more things like this to raise awareness the better.”
To register for the community event, visit www.city2cityawh.org.au.
