GJ Gardner Taree’s charity golf day raises record-breaking $35,000 for mental health in construction industry

GJ Gardner Taree’s second annual MATES in Construction Charity Golf Day has raised an impressive $35,000 to support mental health initiatives in the construction industry, surpassing their fundraising amount from the previous year. The event, which saw 103 participants come together, aimed to raise both funds and awareness to combat the high rate of suicide among construction workers in Australia.

Cheryl Gray, owner of GJ Gardner Taree, expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming support and participation, noting that the event not only exceeded their fundraising goal but also brought the construction community closer together. “Every year, 190 Australians working in the construction industry take their own lives, meaning we lose a construction worker every second day to suicide. This event is critical to raising both funds and awareness to combat this incredibly important issue,” she said.

Attendee Jai Bolton from G.James Window & Doors Taree shared how the event and the cause resonate with personal mental health struggles, stating, “This kind of day helps raise awareness and opens up communication lines for men, in particular, to acknowledge that they may not be okay. It’s vital to have these discussions to help someone feel less alone.”

The event’s success was bolstered by generous contributions from various sponsors, with major sponsor WesBeam donating a $10,000 floor system. Other notable sponsors included Carpet Craft, Reece, Taree Rocket Tools, Bunnings Warehouse Australia, Sail Apartments Forster, Sydney Tools, and Discovery Parks & Resorts.

MRD Electrical took home the winning trophy for the second consecutive year, while Colliers was awarded the Turkey Award, adding a competitive spirit to the day’s proceedings.

GJ Gardner Taree remains committed to supporting mental health initiatives and has planned a MATES in Construction Connector Training day on 31 August 2024, aiming to train 20 participants in providing support to colleagues in need. Interested individuals are encouraged to contact the office at 6500 4556 to participate.

“We are dedicated to continuing this vital work and will be back next year to host another charity golf day. Our ongoing efforts aim to foster a supportive and safe environment within the construction community,” Gray concluded.