Recently, the seaside city of Frankston in Victoria saw more than just a footy game—it witnessed the power of sport and community coming together to support better mental health.
The Reclink Footy League Grand Final at Frankston Kinetic Stadium was a first for the city, thanks to the players, volunteers and exciting new partnership between Mental Health and Wellbeing Local in Frankston (Local Services) and Reclink Australia.
The event drew enthusiastic crowds from all over the region who cheered from the stands and sidelines as the national anthem was played by volunteers before kick-off.
“The players you see here on the field come from all walks of life who are dealing with so much off the field. But for one day, each year, they put that aside and are celebrated for the champions, the legends they truly are!”
“Zippy” (A 76-year-old player and community footy advocate)
Dressed in her team colours was Amber, player for the Frankston Dolphins and participant at Local Services in Frankston: “It’s been just so much fun to watch! It’s great to see everyone working together, passing the ball to our older players, and always cheering each other on,” she said.
Amber, who experiences social anxiety, shared how getting active has helped her overcome those challenges. “I tend to keep to myself a lot, but being part of Reclink helps me get out, meet people, and stay fit. I’m also part of the Frankston Friends peer support group at Local Services, which helps me meet new people and connect more with the community.”
Players get set to take the field at Frankston Kinetic Stadium.
More Than Just a Game
The Cardinia Tigers and Salvo Hawks battled it out, with the Tigers emerging victorious. The second game between the Frankston Dolphins and Latrobe Valley Panthers ended ahead of schedule due to a player requiring assistance on the field but the day’s spirit of camaraderie and connection continued, not to mention the hugely popular sausage sizzle run by senior volunteers which produced over 600 sausages for the crowds in total.
Matt Taylor, Building Community Capacity Coordinator at Mental Health and Wellbeing Local in Frankston said this landmark event went beyond the footy field, and united the Frankston community through the power of sport, “Many in our community are facing tough times, which can impact their mental health and wellbeing.
“Sport has a unique ability to unite people from all walks of life. It levels the playing field, fostering connections and community spirit both on and off the footy field.”
Following the players’ progress all season and watching the games closely is Reclink Senior Program Coordinator Rhan Harris, a passionate advocate of community footy: “There’s nothing like the thrill of the first kick-off—the adrenaline, the nerves leading up to the final siren. It’s an experience like no other!
“Each player has faced their own personal challenges and worked incredibly hard to overcome them. Their commitment to showing up and embracing the spirit of Reclink is truly inspiring,” he said. “After the game, that’s when the real magic happens. We connect on a deeper level, sharing experiences and forming bonds that are deeply moving.”
Dean Killen, Community Engagement Worker at Mental Health and Wellbeing Local in Frankston (left) helps present best player medals.
A Partnership with Purpose
Reclink Australia offers free sport, recreation, and arts sessions each year, creating opportunities for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds to connect and thrive, while the Mental Health and Wellbeing Local in Frankston serves as a front door to accessible and personalised mental health support in the community.
Listen now!
Listen to the Frankston Local Services team talk Reclink footy on 3MP Breakfast Radio.
Dean Killen, Community Engagement Worker at Mental Health and Wellbeing Local, said the partnership was a natural fit: “We’re both focused on supporting people from all walks of life. At Local Services in Frankston, we provide tailored services for people experiencing mental health challenges, including individuals navigating both mental health and substance use concerns.
“Events like this grand final create the perfect environment to start conversations about mental health in a relaxed, natural way.”
Local Legends: Rachel Stewart, Psychologist at Frankston Local Services with Harry (left) and Dave Wells, Reclink Australia CEO with Nala (right)
Local Legends: Spectators pause for a moment during the excitement of cheering for their teams
The Local Services team was on hand throughout the event, chatting with spectators and listening to their mental health concerns. Even Harry, the team’s much-loved support dog, was there to bring smiles and help people feel at ease. “We’re thrilled to have been part of this day, combining the excitement of sport with raising awareness about mental health,” Killen added.
Reclink Australia CEO Dave Wells echoed the sentiment: “We’re so excited about this partnership because it’s such a perfect match for what we do. We can’t wait for the next big event!”
Among the crowd was Frankston City’s football-loving Mayor Nathan Conroy, who was excited to see the community come together: “This is what it’s all about—making sure people of all abilities can get involved in sport. Today’s grand final is a perfect example of how sport can bring people together for something bigger.”
The partnership between Mental Health and Wellbeing Local and Reclink Australia is set to grow, bringing more opportunities for the Frankston community to connect, both on and off the field.
Watch this space!
Smiles for miles: (left to right) Reclink CEO Dave Wells, players “Zippy”, Max and Frankston City Mayor, Nathan Conroy
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