A Koori man who became a mental health support worker has shared his experiences of depression, accepting an International Men’s Day award at a local function.
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Troy Pease suffered for many years, hitting low points including jail and the threat of losing his wife and kids.
“Different issues in our life, different contributing factors cause depression, including changes in chemical balance in our brains,” Mr Pease said.
“If you don’t address this stuff early it will lead to other problems.”
- Troy Pease
A men’s group he wants to form in association with the Ulladulla Community Resources Centre (CRC) would address health problems of individuals and the flow on effects to families, carers, and broader community.
Former police officer and long time servant of the Mollymook Surf Life Saving Club Anthony Austin supported Mr Pease’s thoughts.
He advised the small but interested group listening that seeking help and addressing problems as soon as they emerge is vital.
“Do I want to take [prescribed] drugs and consult a psychologist for the rest of my life? No but I will because I know it is what will help me stay healthy.”
- Anthony Austin
Pease and Austin were among seven local men to receive International Men’s Awards certificates in appreciation and recognition of their contribution in all areas of their lives to the Southern Shoalhaven community.
Their clubs or organisations nominated them, via the CRC.
Families can also submit nominations.
“Many men work in the community for years, sometimes unpaid, and often unrecognised or unappreciated - even your dad,” said CRC manager Maria Mitchell.
The local awards have been running since 2008 and this year follow the November 19 International Men’s Day theme of celebrating contributions by men and boys to those around them, to their family and friends, their workplace and the community, nations and the world.
The awards were handed out at a function at Bunnings, where MC Ross Wade presented a card to Vicki Sansom, acknowledging the organisation’s contribution to many initiatives of the CRC in recent years.
Turning his life around to reach his current achievements won Troy Pease his nomination.
Ross Johnson was nominated for his dedication to the CRC, each week helping with computer lessons, collecting food store donations, overseeing fundraising barbeques and generally offering help in the centre when needed.
His joking catch-cry is that he deserves a medal, so in addition to his certificate, he received one.
Veterinarian Gary Parker is legendary for his love and caring for animals and puts their welfare before cost of treatment.
Geoff Langdon has worked for many years for the Lions Club, in the steak van, doing Christmas decorations for town businesses which consumes many hours, and has been invaluable at the pre-loved book shop.
Barry Bryant is a valued Lions Club volunteer, helping the van and merry-go-rounds on market days, potting plants for sale at the Uniting Church and other community venues, a volunteer even during recovery now from ill health.
Bob Farnham works tirelessly, volunteering for Lions, helping young people, cooking at the Youth Centre and is always available to work on the church grounds or wherever help is required.
The final award went to Anthony Austin, who has more than 30 years’ patrol experience with the Mollymook Surf Life Saving Club.
Director of education and training for the past 15 years, Anthony has received the SLSC Commendation Award and Training Officer of the Year Award four times, is a life member and has a passion for the Club’s history.
