Cricket hero Brad Hogg to visit Karratha to break down mental health stigma

Cricket legend Brad Hogg is set to bowl over Karratha locals during a visit to promote positive messages around mental health this month. The left-arm wrist spin bowler played 123 One Day International (ODI) matches for Australia and became a cult hero during his stint in the Big Bash League. He will share the story of his cricket career and his personal struggles with mental health issues in the hope of breaking down some of the stigmas surrounding mental health and suicide. The trip to Karratha, which will take place from July 28-31, aims to raise awareness of Lifeline WA’s crisis support and suicide prevention services. It will kick off with the “Barefoot Bowls and Burgers with Brad” event held on July 28 at the Karratha Bowling Club, where locals can hear Hogg share his story, enjoy a burger and play a game of bowls. The cricketing hero will also visit local high schools and attend the FeNaCING Festival at Bulgarra Oval. “I’ll be sharing my story in an informal setting, which I hope will encourage people to feel comfortable sharing their own stories around mental health,” Hogg said. “I hope by normalising life’s struggles, and encouraging people to be open, it makes an impact.” Lifeline WA chief executive Lorna MacGregor said she hoped hearing Brad Hogg deliver important messages about positive mental health would make an impact in the Karratha community. “Having someone who’s reached the highest levels of sport talk about the importance of mental health goes a long way to reducing the stigma around discussing it,” she said. “I hope that hearing Brad speak about his experiences and how to recognise signs that someone might be struggling will encourage more people to reach out for help when needed. “We want them to know that they are never alone, and that help is always a phone call away if they need it.” The community event is supported by Lifeline WA’s corporate partner Santos. Meanwhile, retired West Coast Eagles footballer Brad Sheppard will kick off his role as as Lifeline WA’s ambassador with a visit to Exmouth on July 19.