A Wānaka fundraiser tonight (Saturday February 28) aims to spark conversations about mental health in rural communities.

‘Bush, Balls & Breaking Barriers’ will take place at the Lake Wānaka Centre. Hosted by Aspiring Rotary, the event raises funds for Mental Hunts, a charity supporting the rural, tradie, and hunting sectors.

It promises an evening of inspiring stories, social connection, and fun, with food, a bar, and a live auction.

“We hope people will leave feeling inspired, with new tools to add to their toolbox, and that the evening will spark open conversations that maybe weren’t happening before,” Aspiring Rotary representative Livia Warren told the Wānaka App.

Speakers will include former Black Cap Lou Vincent, Mental Hunts founder Glen Thurston, and registered counsellor Kathryn Wright, with Matt Chisholm as MC. 

Livia said Aspiring Rotary had wanted to host an uplifting event as the weather cools to help lift spirits.

“After Glen Thurston from Mental Hunts did a presentation to our Aspiring Rotary group, we felt we really wanted to get on board and help him raise funds. So, with that, Bush, Balls and Breaking Barriers was born.”

Livia said Mental Hunts helps break down stigma and encourage conversations about mental wellbeing in communities where people often ‘just get on with it’.

“These are exactly the groups that have some of the highest suicide rates in New Zealand.”

The speakers will share personal experiences and practical advice. 

Lou will talk about his road to redemption after a lifetime ban for match fixing as a Black Cap; Glen will explain why tough conversations matter in rural communities; Kathryn will provide tools for managing mental wellbeing; and Matt will keep the evening flowing, sharing his own experiences and energising the audience.

“Most people tend to ‘just get on with it,’ but sometimes ‘just getting on with it’ isn’t enough.

All of our speakers know what that feels like and how to see the signs,” Livia said.

“The stories of resilience, honesty, and open conversations about life’s struggles will resonate with a rural audience.”

Tickets for Bush, Balls & Breaking Barriers are still available.

PHOTO: Supplied