The future of a major Yarra Ranges mental health fundraising event hangs in the balance after its biggest private sponsor pulled its funding.
She Won’t Be Right Mate’s annual fundraising event, a car show and family day, is scheduled for December in Yarra Glen but its organisers fear this may not be possible without significant financial backing.
Event founder Marcus Reeves and marketing manager Bec Gilbert said they’ve “pounded the pavement” sending emails and making calls to businesses and potential sponsors but to no avail.
“Times are tricky and we haven’t found the right match for our major event partner in 2025,” they said.
“The good news is that we have had some amazing support offered from previous sponsors, local businesses, vendors and community groups, but so far, it’s just not enough to run our event, even at a trimmed capacity.”
The major sponsorship helps cover the upfront costs of insurance, venue hire and logistics, which as a volunteer organisation that gives all its profits to charity is difficult to do on their own.
Seeking support in any form, whether directly through funding or just by sharing the call out for help, Marcus and Bec said it could be the difference in this event happening or not.
“One share, one introduction could save the event.
“This is your chance to help us continue raising much needed funds, breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and changing lives.”
A passion project of Marcus’, She Won’t Be Right Mate evolved from his own experiences with mental health and addiction which saw him engage in services provided by Eastern Health.
Since the first event in 2019, She Won’t Be Right Mate has donated over $80,000 to the Eastern Health Foundation supporting its mental health programs and initiatives.
Last year’s event raised $23,000 alone towards this important cause.
“Mental health adversary and suicide rates are skyrocketing because of the stigma attached to sharing our feelings, opening up or getting help when we are struggling. Our goal is to get the conversation started and let people know it’s all right to not be alright,” Marcus said.
“If this event helps one person out of the darkness then we have all contributed to saving someone’s life.”
Wanting to bring everyone back together again on 6 December at the Yarra Glen Racecourse for a day of entertainment, with car exhibitors, live music and food trucks, Marcus and Bec are keen to hear from the community.
“We can’t run the 2025 event without your help.
“Fundraising is difficult in this climate, times are tough, and sponsorship is tricky, but we are not afraid of hard work, and we know that this event and your support helps us reach those who really need it. And reduce the statistics.”
To find out more, visit shewontberightmate.net.au
