Pioneers Unite with Lifeline for Mental Health Awareness Round

The Mount Gambier Pioneers will once again use the power of sport to promote an important message when the club hosts its annual Lifeline Mental Health Awareness Round at Wulanda Recreation and Convention Centre on Friday, 10 July.

As part of Round 14 of the 2026 NBL1 South season, both the OneFortyOne Pioneers and Castec Rural Pioneers will proudly wear their blue Lifeline jerseys as they take on the Keilor Thunder, standing together to raise awareness of mental health and suicide prevention.

More than just a game of basketball, the annual theme round encourages the community to look out for one another, start meaningful conversations and remind people that support is always available.

The partnership between the Pioneers, Castec Rural Supplies and Lifeline South East has become one of the club's most meaningful annual initiatives. Since the inaugural Lifeline Game in 2016, the event has raised more than $30,000 to support Lifeline's vital work across the Limestone Coast and Western Victoria.

Mental health affects people of all ages, backgrounds and communities. While many struggles cannot be seen, a simple conversation, a check-in with a friend, teammate or family member, or reaching out for support can make a significant difference. The Pioneers are proud to once again use basketball as a platform to help reduce stigma surrounding mental health and encourage people to seek help when they need it.

The blue jerseys have become a powerful symbol of hope, reminding everyone that no one has to face life's challenges alone.

Castec Rural Supplies Managing Director Chris Castine said the round continues to be one of the company's most important community initiatives.

"We started the Castec Pioneers Lifeline Game back in 2016, and since then it has seen more than $30,000 donated to Lifeline.

"This is an important organisation run by volunteers who do an amazing job, especially in regional Australia where many of their calls come from. Every year, more than one million Australians reach out to Lifeline for support.

"If we can help, even in a small way, across the Limestone Coast and Western Victoria by ensuring there are enough volunteers to answer those calls, then no person has to face their darkest moments alone. The Pioneers have been a wonderful club to partner with in sharing both our message and Lifeline's message, and we thank them for everything they continue to do within our community."

Lifeline South East CEO Leah Griffin said the ongoing partnership continues to make a genuine difference across the region.

"Lifeline South East is proud to continue our strong association with the Pioneers and Castec Rural Supplies. Their commitment to our community goes beyond the game, using their profile to shine a light on the importance of suicide prevention and mental health awareness across the Limestone Coast.

"Their generous fundraising efforts help Lifeline provide crucial support, offering hope and a compassionate ear to those facing life's darkest moments. We are deeply grateful for their leadership and dedication to this vital cause."

The Pioneers encourage everyone attending Friday night's games to wear blue in support of the initiative and help create an environment where conversations around mental health are welcomed with compassion, understanding and respect.

Round 14 Fixture

Friday, 10 July 2026

Wulanda Recreation and Convention Centre

OneFortyOne Pioneers vs Keilor Thunder
🕕 6:00pm ACST

Castec Rural Pioneers vs Keilor Thunder
🕗 8:00pm ACST

If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available 24 hours a day through Lifeline by calling 13 11 14. Every conversation can make a difference, and no one has to face their darkest moments alone.