IN THE COMMUNITY - Summer

Mudgee Swings into Action for Mental Health Support

On World Mental Health Day, the Mudgee Golf Course became more than just a field of fairways - it became a place of purpose, connection and community action. Hosted by Lifeline Central West in partnership with ACEN Australia, the inaugural Mid-West Charity Ambrose raised an impressive $22,000 to support the newly established Lifeline Mudgee Hub.

Nineteen teams teed off under blue skies for a day that combined good-natured competition with a heartfelt cause. The event wasn’t just about golf - it was a show of solidarity, compassion, and the region’s collective commitment to mental health.

The funds raised will remain entirely within the local area, directly supporting the expansion of crisis support and counselling services through the Mudgee Hub. Since opening just months ago, the local team of volunteers has already taken on 19% of all Lifeline Central West calls - a remarkable reflection of both need and community spirit.

At the heart of the hub is Coreene Horenko, the Mudgee Hub Manager, who has been instrumental in guiding volunteers through training and providing ongoing support. Her leadership is helping build a strong foundation of local care that will continue to grow.

The event also shone a spotlight on men’s mental health - a conversation Lifeline Central West is passionate about keeping front and centre. Organisers noted the unique power of the golf course in fostering deeper connections between men. In between swings and shared laughs, space was created for meaningful conversations - the kind that can change, or even save, a life.

Lifeline Central West extended a heartfelt thanks to Westfund for their generous sponsorship, and to former Wallaby Justin Harrison, who brought honesty and humour to the day, reminding all in attendance that true mental strength lies in connection, not silence. From the early tee-off to the final toast at Kelly’s Irish Pub, the event captured the essence of what community really means in the Mid-Western Region.

Following its success, plans are already underway for the next Charity Ambrose in May 2026. With the continued support of local players, sponsors, and volunteers, the future of mental health support in Mudgee looks strong - and hopeful.

Lifeline Central West would like to thank:
ACEN Australia, Bowdens Silver, Outset Studios, Liberty Speciality Markets, Piambong Wind Farm, Kearney Group, Logans, Diageo & ACEREZ

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MUDGEE MENS SHED
This year, the Mudgee Men’s Shed proudly constructed a handcrafted Bi-plane for a group of Postie Bike riders raising funds for Wings 4 Kidz.

The Shed regularly supports local initiatives, drawing on the wide-ranging skills of its members to contribute to meaningful community projects.

Operating as a not-for-profit organisation, the Mudgee Men’s Shed is dedicated to improving men’s health and wellbeing. It provides a welcoming environment where members can connect, share skills, and enjoy a sense of purpose.

Located at the AREC site on Ulan Road, the Shed is open Mondays and Wednesdays from 9am to 3pm, and Fridays from 9am to midday for gym and exercise. To find out more, phone 6372 2023 or drop in for a visit.

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MUDGEE READERS FESTIVAL
For the first time ever, the Mudgee Readers’ Festival kicked off with a Poetry Slam on the evening of Friday 15th of August.

Partnering with Mudgee Poetry Slam, the festival transformed Roth’s Wine Bar into a stage to celebrate the spoken word. Three local poets had already battled their way to the final, while wildcard contenders took the mic for their shot.

Expertly hosted by 2023 Australian Poetry Slam champion Rob Waters, there were more than 85 people in attendance. Guest poets J. Marahuyo and Daiane Moret brought professional polish, but the locals more than held their own.

Themes ricocheted from playful riffs to political urgency, from sharp environmental critiques to powerful First Nations perspectives.

Manjot Kaur claimed the win, with Monica Lee as runner-up. Along with the title, Kaur took home a poetry mentorship courtesy of WestWords Western Sydney: proof that spoken word in Mudgee has never sounded stronger.