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It’s been a decade since one woman made the brave decision to address the elephant in the room and conceive the inaugural White Elephant Ball. The event has been bringing a voice to those struggling with ill mental health in the New England North West region of NSW ever since.
Scott Campbell was 27 years old when he lost his battle with depression. He’d been married two months prior, honeymooned in Bali and was recently invited to apply for a promotion at work. His new wife Katrina said he didn’t feel prepared for the role and the pressure became overwhelming.
On 8 May 2013 Scott was diagnosed with depression and anxiety. On 14 May he collected a prescription for his medication. On 15 May he took his own life.
In an effort to keep busy and stay connected with the people around her, Katrina set about organising the inaugural White Elephant Ball – a fundraiser she conceived to raise money for youth mental health organisation batyr.
Ten years on, with an army of dedicated committee members on board, the ball has raised a remarkable $580,032 for batyr. Those funds have enabled the organisation to deliver preventative mental health programs to support almost 15,000 young people across Tamworth and the New England region.
This year, the White Elephant Ball committee is more determined than ever to honour Scott’s memory, continue to raise funds for batyr and host a beautiful night out for the community.
“To celebrate our 10th anniversary, we’re taking the event back to its roots and will host a formal black tie ball at the Tamworth Town Hall – which will be adorned in a magical array of lights thanks to Mr and Mrs Hill Lighting,” says committee member Jess Barber.
“Guests will enjoy a three-course meal courtesy of Sally Clifton from Pronto Catering, music from Newcastle band Phonic, and a live and silent auction to raise further funds for batyr.”
It’s okay to not be ok
It’s a fun night out to encourage connection and conversation – because sadly, Scott is not alone. Suicide is currently the leading cause of death for young Australians aged between 15-44. The funds raised by the White Elephant Ball help batyr to address this by running programs that reduce the stigma associated with mental ill health and increase the support seeking rate of young people. Their vision? For all young people to be engaged in positive conversations about mental health and feel empowered to reach out for support when needed.
“We want anyone who’s struggling to know that it’s okay to not be ok, and to know that there’s always someone there to listen,” says Jess. “We know those conversations can be tricky, but it’s so important to learn how to recognise certain behaviours in yourself or your mates and start the conversation if you or someone you know is struggling.”
The programs run by batyr are arming young people with the tools to do just that – and it’s working. To date for 2022/23 the programs have reached 961 students with a further 10 scheduled for local schools in 2024. Over 64 per cent of students who took part reported having an improved propensity towards seeking help, over 63 per cent reported they would support a friend experiencing mental ill health and over 80 per cent reported the benefits of hearing from people sharing real experiences.
“That’s what fuels us to keep the original committee’s and Katrina’s vision alive with the White Elephant Ball year after year, and in fact a lot of the original committee members will be joining in the 10-year celebrations,” adds Jess. “We’re so excited to bring this event to life for our wonderful community, to honour Scotty and hopefully help many others to find their voice along the way.”
More info
This year’s White Elephant Ball will be held on Saturday 19 October at the Tamworth Town Hall. Tickets will be sold in groups of five or 10. So gather your herd and get planning your table!
