In what will be the third instalment, Booralee Park in Botany will host the annual Booralee Big Bash this Sunday January 19, which serves as a major suicide awareness fundraiser within the south-east Sydney community.
To raise awareness for mental health and suicide prevention, local community and sporting clubs will participate in a cricket charity day.
Set to be bigger than the previous two years, this year's event will also pay tribute to one of the maiden supporters of the event, Michael McDiarmid, who passed away in 2024 and was a well-respected member of the local community.
โThe reason we're having this day is to enjoy the day, and celebrate and reflect on those people that are no longer with us,โ organiser Tony Pengue toldย The Daily Telegraph.
โPeople can come down and have someone to talk to. Someone can lead them in the right direction and the next steps they can take.
โWe hope to raise enough money to have the programs there for people to be able to access and seek help.โ
Last year's event raised over $7000 in funds for Gotch4Life, which have been used to create vital mental health awareness programs - they aim to reach the $10,000 mark in 2025.
Whilst organisers say the funds are good, they are clear that raising awareness and getting people talking about it, particularly men, is most important.
If any local businesses are looking to donate prizes for the raffle or looking for players on the day, contact Tony Pengue via email at [email protected].
