Lawn Bowls
3 February, 2026
'It’s not shameful, it’s an illness': bowlers support mental health
Coughlin Park Bowling Club helped raise awareness for mental health during Saturday’s weekend pennant competition as part of a partnership between Bowl For Your Lives and Bowls Victoria.
Coughlin Park was one of 60 Victorian clubs to wear merchandise to promote the Mental Health Awareness Charity Round.
The club also raised $500 on the day to support Bowls for Your Lives, which aims to break down the stigma surrounding mental health.
The mental health awareness initiative aims to promote open conversations and understanding, and use the inclusive sport of lawn bowls to offer a supportive space.
The initiative was welcomed by club members Pam and Col Weir, who lost their son Jason to a long battle with mental health in 2017.
The couple emphasised that it can impact anyone.
“He had depression and anxiety for over 10 years, and we were always mindful of it,” Pam said.
“Jason had a fun-loving personality and was the life of the party.
“He was a great family man with four children, a highly respected teacher who had everything going for him.”
Pam and Col are pleased that there is more support for mental health and increased awareness, but believe it is an increasingly prominent issue.
“I think there has been a positive shift because people are talking about it,” Pam said.
“You’ve got Lifeline and other organisations that people seem to be using more.”
“Mental health struggles seem to be more around today,” Col said.
“I think it may be the lifestyle now or just an increase in general life pressure, but many people are affected.”
Asked what their advice would be to people struggling with mental health, the couple encouraged people to seek support from others.
“I’d say just be open about it; talk to your family, or if you can’t talk to your family, at least talk to your friends about your issues,” Pam said.
“Your family and friends can assist you in seeking help,” Col added.
“Please don’t bottle it up because that’s the worst thing you can do.
“Don’t try to hide it. It’s not shameful, it’s an illness.
“If you notice someone seems down or isn’t quite themselves, don’t be afraid to ask, 'Are you alright?’”
Both Pam and Col wanted to thank Robin Shaw and the Coughlin Park Bowling Club for organising the mental health shirts and supporting mental health awareness.
If you require mental health support you can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636 or reach out to your GP.