It’s the return of The Mullet Matters, a fundraising campaign in support of the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand.
Last year’s inaugural event saw mullet-loving souls take up the challenge and set their mullets loose around Aotearoa, starting important conversations about mental health and raising over $130,000 for the mental health promotion charity.
Those involved say the power of the mullet is in its ability to spark important conversations about mental health.
“You don’t have to walk up to someone and say, ‘do you want to talk about mental health?’, but someone’s going to come up to you and be like, ‘what’s up with the mullet?’ That’s your in.”
Jack Bellerby kindly agreed to draw attention to Mullet Matters in our community.
Why did you agree to get involved with Mullet Matters Month?
I was definitely a little nervous accepting this offer but it’s for such a great cause; if I can help in any way possible for this cause, I’m in.
Everyone has a relationship with their mental health. How do you personally look after yours?
I personally look after mine by spending time outdoors, which involves surfing, fishing, road tripping. Anything with a little adventure and nature really helps me through my low times.
When I talked to you, you mentioned you were having a ‘Jack day’ after a super busy work period. I really liked that idea in relation to this topic. It’s being kind to yourself, right? What does the perfect ‘Jack day ‘ look like?
Totally, you have to be kind to yourself and don’t be too hard on yourself. There’s no right or wrong way to live our lives so just try and do what makes you happy, whatever that may be. But for myself a perfect “Jack Day” would probably involve a really nice breakfast and coffee then I’d head up the coast for an uncrowded surf with my two brothers, then drop a line and catch a couple gurnards on the way home. Then probably just take it easy for the arvo and spend time with my partner, friends and family.
In your mind what are the important things for men to do to support each other?
Us men sometimes find it hard to open up to each other so it’s ok to open up and be vulnerable. We need to support each other and understand we all go through hard times. We can’t judge one another or ourselves as we are all different which makes us all so special. We all have to make an effort to be there for each other, it’s really easy to overlook our mates needing help so make an effort to be there for them and to get them talking or doing something they love.
What’s something in 2024 you are going to do more of that you think will enhance your health and wellbeing?
This year I’ll be doing more overseas travelling, adventuring and exploring with my beautiful partner. We also will be building a small home together in Te Akau which will bring me a lot of happiness to create something with my hands.
Your mullet is a goodie. Is it staying around?
Most definitely!!! the mullet is here to stay for many years to come!
