Together for Life: Mudgee Shows What Community Really Means
By Brad Kane, Chief Operating Officer – Lifeline Central West
There are days that remind you exactly why we do what we do — and our ACEN Australia Mid-West Charity Ambrose on World Mental Health Day was one of them.
It wasn’t just a day of golf. It was a day of connection, laughter, and purpose.
The fairways of Mudgee were filled with 19 teams, sunshine, and good-natured competition. But more than anything, they were filled with community spirit — the kind that says, “We’ve got each other’s backs.”
Thanks to the incredible support of our players, sponsors, and volunteers, we raised an amazing $22,000 for the new Lifeline Central West Mudgee Hub. Every dollar will stay right here in Mudgee — helping us continue to grow local crisis support and counselling services for the Mid-Western community.
A Community Stepping Up
Our Mudgee Hub only opened a few months ago, yet already our local volunteers are answering 19% of all Lifeline Central West calls — a huge achievement and a testament to the dedication, compassion, and resilience of this community.
At the heart of this effort is Coreene Horenko, our Mudgee Hub Manager. Coreene has been leading with warmth and purpose, supporting volunteers on the phones and guiding them through their training. She’s helping shape a new chapter for Lifeline in Mudgee — one built on empathy, local connection, and courage.
Mudgee has shown that when a community stands together, hope isn’t just possible — it’s powerful.
Men’s Mental Health – A Conversation We Must Keep Having
As a bloke and a strong advocate for men’s mental health, this part really matters to me.
The golf course is often one of the few places where men truly build the trust to open up. There’s something about walking shoulder to shoulder — sharing shanks, slices, and hooks — that builds a bond. And sometimes that bond is enough to open a door to a deeper conversation.
Talking is what matters.
Too many men still carry the belief that they have to do it all on their own. But strength isn’t silence — it’s the courage to reach out, to check in on your mates, or to pick up the phone when you need to talk.
If you’re struggling, don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help.
You don’t need to be at breaking point to call Lifeline — sometimes you just need someone to listen.
💬 Self-care isn’t selfish. Look after yourself — and each other.
That’s how we build stronger, more connected communities.
I also want to take a moment to thank Westfund for standing with us in championing mental health — especially men’s wellbeing — and for their generous support of this initiative. Their commitment to healthier, happier regional communities reflects exactly what Lifeline stands for: compassion, connection, and care.
Gratitude and Growth
From the early-morning tee-off to the afternoon at Kelly’s Irish Pub, the day was filled with generosity. Thank you to everyone who bid in the auctions, joined the raffles, or simply turned up with a smile.
A special thank-you to Justin Harrison, whose honesty, humour, and insight reminded us that mental strength isn’t about being unbreakable — it’s about staying connected when times get tough.
As I watched people share stories, laughter, and a few long drives, I couldn’t help but feel proud. Proud of what we’ve achieved together — and proud of the way Mudgee has embraced the Lifeline mission.
Looking Ahead – May 2026
The success of this year’s event has already inspired us to do it all again.
We’re currently planning to bring the Charity Ambrose back in May 2026, and we’d love to see you on the green with us once again.
Because this isn’t just a golf day — it’s a symbol of what’s possible when a community rallies for something bigger than itself.
We’re building something lasting here in Mudgee — a hub of support, a network of care, and a sense of belonging.
So, to everyone who played, sponsored, donated, or volunteered — thank you.
Together, we’ve proven that Mudgee’s heart is as strong as its swing.
Together for Life
Brad Kane
COO, Lifeline Central West