By Brendan Rees
Graeme Hulland says his son, Justin, loved his football and was a promising youngster.
Justin played for Chelsea YCW under-14s before going on to play as a 16 -year-old for Chelsea Heights Demons Football Club in the under-19s.
But in February, 2014, Mr Hulland’s world came crashing down when Justin took his own life.
“He followed me around. He was in my pocket all the time,” he said. “I go through this every day of my life.”
Mr Hulland shared his story with footy players and coaches at the Cranbourne Football and Netball Club (CFNC) in Cranbourne East on Tuesday, 3 April.
His talk was part of the club’s workshops for Outside the Locker Room (OTLR), a welfare and education program that encourages sportspeople to talk about their mental health.
Mr Hulland said Justin was only six weeks off his 17th birthday when his life was cut short.
“I can’t walk down the street without someone coming up and asking me how I am or putting their hand on my shoulder.”
He encouraged the players and the wider community to talk to someone if they needed support.
“Talk to anyone, tell them what you’re thinking,” he added.
“These things happen in people’s lives. You’ve got to go and tell somebody so people can help you.”
Mr Hulland also spoke about his sister, who also took her own life 25 years ago.
“She was one in a million. She looked after everyone; she had a big social friendship,” he said.
CFNC president Shane Baker said the group was moved by Mr Hulland’s talk.
“That stunned a lot of guys in the room – when you see a guy broken-hearted, talking about his son. I think it hit home,” he said.
Mr Baker said the OTLR program educated young people on the resources and organisations available to them should they feel they require support.
“We find it really important the players have an opportunity to know there’s someone to talk to, somewhere to go.”
Outside The Locker Room Victorian Program Manager Brad Sykes said Mr Hulland’s presentation was overwhelming.
“His experiences helps give people an insight into the effects of suicide and mental health on a family and the wider community.”
“It is imperative for OTLR’s clubs to hear from people affected in our community,“ Mr Sykes said.
If you or someone needs support please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit www.lifeline.org.au.
