Grow the mo: Tyler Brodie joined Movember to start conversations about men’s mental health in honour of his late best friend, who died from suicide. Photo: Tyler Brodie
Tyler Brodie is well known around Benalla, especially for his annual T-Bro Movember fundraiser.
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Every year, for the past eight, Tyler has grown a spectacular moustache in November and raised funds in the Rose City.
When Tyler lost his best friend to suicide, he realised he needed to discuss men’s mental health.
That’s when he discovered Movember, a global community that fundraises to raise awareness around men’s mental health and wellbeing.
People participating in Movember grow their moustaches for November, hold fundraising events and have their big shave-off at the end when they donate what they raise.
In style: Tyler Brodie sells merchandise that can start conversations about mental health. Photo: Tyler Brodie.
Tyler started fundraising with sausage sizzles, then progressed to bigger things, such as raffles and sponsorships.
“When I started with the sausage sizzle, I raised about $200 ... just eight years (after), we raised over $10,000,” he said.
Now, he sells raffle tickets in exchange for donations and merchandise such as shirts, stubby holders and caps.
Tyler said the most important thing was to start the conversation.
“On the back of the stubby holders, it says ‘Starting the conversation for mental health awareness and suicide prevention’,” he said.
“Merchandise is a good conversation starter.”
Tyler’s profile around Benalla soars with every Movember fundraiser he holds.
“People might see someone who’s bought a shirt or hat off me ... they’ll see it and say they’re supporting T-Bro,” he said.
He said it was his goal to surpass last year’s $2650.
This year, Tyler started fundraising in October and has now reached a total figure of $10,000 raised since he began eight years ago.
“Whatever the amount is at the end of the year (will be donated),” he said.
Tyler will draw the raffle winners on November 30
The raffle prizes have been donated by several local businesses, including Rose City Mowers and Intersport Shepparton.
To donate or to buy raffle tickets for T-Bro’s Movember fundraiser, visit au.movember.com/ and search for Tyler Brodie.
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