Guest Speaker: Tom Boyd

An amazing event today for MMG! 

Today we had former AFL premiership winner Tom Boyd share his journey through his playing career and how he navigated mental health challenges throughout. Tom’s talk was inspiring and it was great to hear men say they got a lot from his presentation. 

A massive thank you to the men of our community who attended, to have 50 walk through was great to see. 

Thank you to the Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network for funding the event through their community grants program and for the PCYC for the venue. 

Some feedback from some of the men post our event today with AFL premiership winner Tom Boyd: 

“Today was very motivating and insightful. It really stood out to me that even elite athletes struggle with mental health. Tom’s story, especially his choice to put his mental wellbeing before money, was powerful and inspiring. It reminded me how crucial it is to prioritise mental health.” - Josh 

“Thank you to Rhys, MMG and sponsors. Rhys has again delivered a relatable guest speaker who was able to connect with many members of our community from all walks of life. Tom was able to engage through humility, honesty and humour about football, fatherhood and friendships. He articulated a clear but simple message of self care, self help , communication and connection. I hope you all get the opportunity to hear Tom’s story.” - Justin 

“It was so good today to see over 50 men get together through Murrumbidgee Men's Group, PHN, PCYC and other community mental health networks for a 2 hr meet up listening to a down to Earth and casual talk about the seriousness of mental health and the journey and life experience of former AFL player Tom Boyd. There were some hard truths revealed and some laughs and encouragement along the way.” - Angelo 

“I was humbled by his story, and how he chose his mental health over the career and how he bowed out from the club. Even after such success in football and the money he's was on and returned. His story highlights the importance of having one’s mental health in high regards and in check.” - Tommy

From Tom Boyd:

10/10 would recommend… An amazing weekend out in Wagga with the Murrumbidgee Men’s Group. 

Sunday afternoon saw a fully packed house, all blokes choosing to spend their Sunday talking about their health. 

Often is the case when I travel to regional parts of the country that there is some interpolation around how much engagement you’ll get with what has historically been a pretty stoic demographic. 

Blokes mostly over 50. 

In the heart of League territory. 

On a Sunday. 

Doesn’t bode well from a confidence point of view. 

Yet, time and time again you see the investment both in the community, in others and in themselves that men in regional towns are making. 

It is such a rewarding part of my job. 

A huge that’s to Rhys for asking me out to speak at one of his fortnightly events - and to all of the people who made it possible. 

Sunday 15th February, 12pm - 2pm
PCYC Wagga Wagga