Allegra Spender (Wentworth, Independent) Share this | Hansard source

Right now on Bondi Beach in my electorate of Wentworth, something both exciting and exhausting is happening. The Tama Touch football group are attempting a world record for the longest continuous touch rugby match in history—34 hours of non-stop play. As of now, they've been playing for 31 hours and 37 minutes. This group of mates have been playing on the beach for 20 years. Their extraordinary attempt is about more than just sport; it's about raising awareness for mental health. With Beyond Blue as a charity partner, Tama Touch footy have already raised over $156,000 to support the vital work of this organisation.

Addressing mental health has never been more urgent. The World Health Organization predicts depression will be the leading global health concern by 2030, and we see the impact of this challenge in every community, including mine in Wentworth. What Tama Touch footy are doing shows the very best of community spirit, looking out there for one another and taking action to help. Their effort would not be possible without the support of long-suffering families, friends, sponsors and Waverley Council. I want to pay tribute not just to the players but to everyone who has contributed to this extraordinary undertaking. I really wanted to be there to cheer them on, but I couldn't be, because parliament is sitting. I was very proud to play with them last Friday, and—my God—it was very tiring, even for five minutes! So I don't know how they will keep it up. But congratulations to Tama Touch footy for this inspiring effort to raise funds and awareness for mental health.

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