Warrandyte Cricket Club are Mental Health Champions

The star club won the Good Sports Mental Health Excellence Award, for its strong commitment to raising mental health awareness in their club, sharing mental health resources, and helping to prevent and reduce harms from alcohol and other drugs.

The club’s Mental Health and Welfare Officer, Rachel Watts, said she was proud of the club for being recognised for its work in the mental health space, as it has been a big focus over recent years.

“Our club raises awareness about mental health and the connection between alcohol, drug use and wellbeing through education, culture and practical support,” Rachel explained.

“Our dedicated Welfare Team leads our mental health program and offers members up to three fully funded counselling sessions with a local psychologist, along with referral support. We also run a range of workshops to reinforce resilience, help-seeking and the risks associated with alcohol and other drug use.”

Connection comes first

“Every Thursday, we host a club meal night, which is designed to build social connection without alcohol being the focus. These evenings provide a safe, supportive environment where members can talk openly and check in on each other,” Rachel added.

Having reached the highest level of the Good Sports program, Warrandyte Cricket Club has a policy that covers mental health, as well as alcohol and tobacco management, illegal drugs and safe transport.

“Good Sports has helped us build a club environment where health, safety, and connection are prioritised, on and off the field,” Rachel said.

“We are deeply invested in our members, their wellbeing, and the community we serve. Our guiding philosophy sums it up perfectly: there is a place for everybody at the Warrandyte Cricket Club,” she added.

The club will win a cash prize for its achievement, which will go towards mental health support for members and the club’s girls’ program.