General News
15 December, 2023
Shear determination
THE tears flowed and weary bodies finally sat after what was a gruelling 24-hour shear-a-thon in Warrnambool last weekend.
The Mifsud trio – dad Roger and sons Corey and Brody – were joined by local shearer and friend Phil Edwards and Nhill brothers Josh and Brandon Bone for an epic 36-hour ‘Shear Madness’ challenge which saw close to 5000 lambs shorn and awareness of mental health raised to new heights.
While the final fundraising tally isn’t expected to be known for several weeks, estimations are it will be more than the $75,000 raised last year – with all proceeds this year going to the Let’s Talk Foundation.
“Let’s Talk does a wonderful job within the community and mental illness unfortunately affects so many across the district so we thought it appropriate that the proceeds this year go to the foundation,” Corey Mifsud said.
“We’re extremely grateful to not only Phil, Josh and Brandon who joined the three of us, but also to our big band of volunteers who worked so hard leading up to the weekend and during the event itself; without them it would not have been possible.”
The six men had their bodies and minds put to the test as they made their way through the night and well into late Saturday, spurred on by an enthusiastic crowd and the memories of friends lost.
“The shear-a-thon itself was certainly a physical challenge but it’s the emotions that come with it all that really hit home,” Roger Mifsud said late Saturday night.
“It’s days and even weeks down the track when it really hits us. So many people are affected by mental health issues and unfortunately too many of us have lost friends and loved ones as a result.
“But we all need to talk more, to take note of what’s going on around us, to speak out and seek help if we’re struggling and not be afraid to speak up.”
Reflecting on the previous hours late Saturday night, Corey Mifsud said it wasn’t so much the money raised that was important but rather the lives that may be spared.
“It’s certainly important that we raise as much as we can in order for the Let’s Talk Foundation to continue its great work in the community but it’s even more important we do what we can to prevent any more losses,” Corey said.
“If you’ve got concerns for any family or friends just check-in. Make sure they’re okay. Personally I’ve gone through some pretty dark times but it’s family and friends, including those at Russells Creek footy club, who’ve helped pull me through and I’m extremely grateful.”
Josh and Brandon Nhill said they too were honoured to have been able to take part in such an important event.
“We recently lost a mate, Jake, and Roger is a terrific mentor of mine so we didn’t hesitate to become involved,” Josh said.
“If anyone on my crew seems down I always ask if they’re okay. If you see a mate going downhill just get on the phone and talk to them; have a chat.”
“There’s still not enough talk happening and we need to improve on that,” Brandon added.
For the six shearers who spent long hours on the stands, and the group of dedicated rousies and others who worked behind-the-scenes during this mammoth challenge, Saturday night’s final countdown was an emotional one.
Let’s Talk Foundation spokesperson John Parkinson extended the organisation’s appreciation to all those involved in the event.
“As an organisation we want to extend our reach as far as we can and it’s fundraising events such as this that help us to continue to do so,” Mr Parkinson said.
“If we continue to do nothing we will continue to lose lives. We can all go away from today with something special that we didn’t have beforehand.
“Speak to family and friends. If you see any subtle changes at all don’t ignore it; a problem shared is a problem spared.”
The foundation’s community activation lead Abbi Power added to Mr Parkinson’s sentiments.
“I can’t say enough how extremely thankful we are to you all – this was a huge effort by so many people and each and every one of you are making a difference,” she said.
