This link has been embraced by the Hume Football League (HFL), which has joined with GSAHS to include the theme of Rural Mental Wellbeing during the 2008 season and to coincide with the league’s 75th anniversary.

Ms Barrie said the idea of linking mental wellbeing with the HFL came about through a chance meeting with president Merv Wagner earlier this year.

She was invited to speak about her role with GSAHS at the launch of the Hume League season earlier this month and all 15 clubs voted in favour of the initiative.

“We believe this project is a good way of reaching farmers, farming families and community members across the League and wider communities,” she said.

Ms Barrie said the idea of promoting mental wellbeing through the football club is to not only educate and support people who are already stressed or depressed, but to provide education to prevent mental illness, or to stay well.

“It is important to remember that this project will address not only football players, but the wider community in siblings, parents, grandparents, canteen volunteers, trainers, committees and spectators,” Ms Barrie said.

The types of strategies or events to be held during the season include mental health information in weekly football newsletters, presentations, mental health first aid courses, guest speakers and farm family gatherings.

“The project will culminate in an event, currently being planned for later in the year,” Ms Barrie said.

Greater Hume Shire Council has offered support for this project.