AFTER what has been a challenging year, Movember is calling on Australians to come together for its 18th annual Mo-growing campaign and close out the year by having fun and doing good.
Shepparton’s Tyler Brodie, who was born and raised in Benalla, has participated in Movember for the past six years. He became involved in the organisation and raising awareness of men’s mental health and suicide prevention after his best mate took his own life in 2013.
Movember seeks to reduce the number of men who die prematurely, and by growing a mo and starting a conversation, the stigma around men’s health can be dismantled and real growth can take place.
“It’s like my Christmas,” Tyler says, “Every year as soon as October 1 hits I’m thinking about Movember. I’m growing my mo out, I’m getting raffle tickets ready and talking to people.”
Initially Tyler raised funds by hosting a Bunning’s-inspired sausage sizzle, but COVID-19 restrictions have impacted fundraising efforts as much as the phenomenon has impacted mental health and access to support.
“I want to help people and I want to raise awareness and funds, especially in this time of COVID-19 where mental health is more important than ever.”
Despite limitations, Tyler raised more than $1,500 last year and he hopes to make an even greater difference in the community and to Movember this year offering T-Bro’s Movember merchandise and raffle tickets with prizes donated from local businesses.
Since 2020, to raise money Tyler has begun holding raffles with the help of local businesses. This year there is a mower, fuel vouchers, and more up for grabs by contributing.
To donate to T-Bro’s Movember, go to Tyler’s ‘Mospace’ at movember.com/m/tylerbrodie23 or catch him outside Benalla Woolworths at the end of the month for your last chance to grab a ticket.
