THE region's sporting groups are set to benefit from a state government funded program aimed at promoting mental health.
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The new $1.2 million program will be available to sporting clubs to host events, which will bring the community together.
The announcement comes alongside plans for some of NSW's best cricketers to tour the region to help promote mental health.
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The Baggy Blues, Cricket NSW's alumni group, will host games in Inverell and Tamworth in January and February, in partnership with the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program (RAMHP).
Baggy Blues chairman Phil Emery said the tour would help connect the Tamworth community over a love of sport.
"We started doing the Baggy Blue tours about six or seven years ago, after we formed the organisation for former players, umpires and volunteers," Emery said.
"That developed from there into playing games in regional areas and we decided if we were going to play in regional areas, we should try to leave a legacy behind.
"Two years ago we formed a partnership with RAMHP and have been able to make a positive impact on regional communities."
The tour announcement coincided with the state government's release of funding to help sporting groups promote mental health awareness.
NSW Mental Health Minister Bronnie Taylor said the funding would be available to all sporting clubs throughout the region.
"This initiative does the wonderful thing of helping bring people together over sport and they can have those important conversations," Minister Taylor said.
"Sport connects people, it's a great way to break down barriers.
"I think that's something the Baggy Blues have done really well and hopefully can continue to do well in the future."
Last playing in Tamworth more than 10 years ago, Emery said he was excited to once again grace the region's cricket fields.
"The bush has always had a really strong connection with cricket," he said.
"Most of the current and past NSW players have either come from, or can affiliate with regional areas in some way.
"That's why it's especially important for tours like ours to come out to regional areas and give people a good time."
The former NSW and Australian wicket keeper said details regarding the tour were yet to be finalised.
"We are trying to schedule these tours at the opportune time to be able to bring some high-profile players," Emery said.
"While we know we are coming to Inverell in late January and Tamworth in early February, we aren't exactly sure on dates or players just yet.
"All of that will come out in the coming weeks."
To apply for the newly announced funding, visit www.sportnsw.com.au.
Billy Jupp
Billy is a Senior Livestock Journalist for the Queensland Country Life based in Toowoomba. He has worked for a variety of different ACM mastheads during the past five years including the Namoi Valley Independent, Northern Daily Leader and The Land.
Billy is a Senior Livestock Journalist for the Queensland Country Life based in Toowoomba. He has worked for a variety of different ACM mastheads during the past five years including the Namoi Valley Independent, Northern Daily Leader and The Land.
