The recent switch the headspace Match for Mental Health charity football match in Mount Gambier has been praised in State Parliament.

Independent Member for Mount Gambier Troy Bell thanked the organisers and the 3000-strong crowd and told the House of Assembly that at least $30,000 was raised for headspace.

“The match was designed to do two things: first of all, to raise awareness and funds for mental health, and to reduce the stigma; and to reach and educate the wider South East community on mental health, aiming to encourage those who may not have traditionally sought mental health support and give them the ability to reach out,” Mr Bell said.

The long-retired Kongorong and South Gambier player was one of the local celebrities who had the opportunity to play alongside such AFL legends as Brownlow Medallist Dane Swan.

“I must admit I was a bit surprised by the pace of the game; sitting in full forward and having some extremely good players playing on me, I was able to get my hands on the ball a couple of times, but it was a good spectacle for all involved,” Mr Bell

said.