On Friday night the Bulldogs were courageous in victory over the Sea Eagles and so were the celebrities, members, volunteers and runners who slogged it out alongside the players to raise money and awareness for one of Australia’s biggest killers and continue the Bulldogs commitment, to encourage awareness of mental health issues.
Suicide is Australia’s biggest killer of both male and females aged 15-44 years old. It can affect anyone. “It isn’t weak to speak” and throughout the course of the evening, Bulldogs in the Community and a number of inspiring individuals were determined to spread this message.
Chairman Ray Dib and Chief Executive Raelene Castle were extremely proud to present Suicide Prevention Australia with a cheque for $15,000 on behalf of the Leagues Club and Football Club. In addition partners of Bulldogs players joined forces with volunteers pre-game, collecting $2300 through gate donations.
The runaway success of the Plebs, Pros and Personalities 24 hour treadmill initiative, held at Maroubra Sports Club on the weekend of June 20-21, led to the continuance of the initiative on field for round 17 at ANZ Stadium.
The original event raised over $100,000 for Suicide Prevention Australia, a national body leading the push towards a hopeful future for people at risk.
“There were so many people there in high spirits, and to continue it tonight… it was a really great initiative of the Bulldogs” said Sapphire Dominique.
Positioned on-field behind the southern goal posts runners had the unique opportunity to watch the action up close, with the challenge to keep three treadmills spinning for the duration of the NRL game.
Personalities including TV presenter Laura Dundovic, Bondi Lifeguard (and die hard Doggies man) Quinn Darragh, Actor Luke Carroll, Big wave surfer John Shimooka, Boxer Garth Woods and Australian and NSW Breakers cricketer Kara Sutherland and four of our very own Sapphires, joined in the event, enthusiastically running on the treadmill despite the chilly conditions.
“It’s really good to get behind a cause that is so important” said Dom,
“To do something fun like hop on the treadmills and raise awareness at a game, it’s a really great feeling.”
The partners of the players, Bulldogs members and fans ran side by side with the personalities, with the group coming together to challenge the stigma surrounding suicide in Australia and make suicide prevention everyone’s business.
To donate to Suicide Prevention Australia through the Plebs, Pro’s & Personalities visit ppp4spa.com.au or SMS ‘bulldogs’ to 0447 767 767 today.
A big thank you to the following people and companies for their support; the organisers of PPP4SPA Spook More and Ben Higgs, Jamie Campbell, Michelle Williams, Body Science, Ragdoll surfboards, AS Colour, U First Fitness and all volunteers and runners who gave up their time on the night.
