The Club Connect presentation, hosted at the Clutha Town & Country Club (T&C) on Tuesday, October 21, was led by Craig "Wiggy" Wiggins of the Lean On A Gate organisation, supported by former Māori All Black Slade McFarland.
Promoted by Clubs New Zealand, they are touring T&C’s throughout the South Island to encourage people to "check in" with friends and establish local support networks.
Wiggy founded Lean On A Gate after losing two friends to suicide in 2021, and said the initiative was about taking five minutes to reconnect with those around us.
"I want to encourage people all over the country to take five minutes out of their day to ring a friend and check in, or to talk to a neighbour, family member, or colleague," he said. "Just a quick chat can often make a huge difference."
He said the campaign’s light-hearted style carried a serious purpose — to reduce stress and anxiety by being proactive and "sharing the load."
Balclutha Town & Country Club president Les Beauman said although attendance was low, the evening’s message hit home for those present.
‘‘I think the low numbers actually shows how much the programme is needed,’’ he said,
‘‘The ones who did turn up certainly got a bit out of it.’’
He also said, like many, he had faced low times himself, and found opening up with friends helped him through.
‘‘Your mental wellbeing is something you have to maintain, you don’t wait till there’s a crisis . . . Don’t sit on your own if you’re quite low. Just talking —and listening— makes all the difference.’’
He said pamphlets and web links were now prominently available at the club, and those who attended were better equipped to support others.
Construction sector insider Mr McFarland said Lean On A Gate had recently signed an agreement with Mates in Construction to provide training for rural and urban communities alike, and teach tradies to recognise when others might need a hand.
‘‘People are going through a lot of tough times alone,’’ he said. ‘‘That’s really hard and it’s not necessary. Mental health is something we all have to look after. At some stage in your life, you’re going to need some help.’’
Despite the modest turnout, the group said the event would help communities —and men in particular— rediscover the simple, vital act of looking out for each other.
