A Safe Space: Breakthrough Mental Health Research Foundation

With his kelpie Lucky alongside him, former Western Australian sheep shearer Lenny Deacon travelled 17,128 kilometres across Australia on a recumbent trike, carrying a message: you are not alone.Honouring his mate Simon ‘Dippa’ Wheaton, who died by suicide, Lenny’s You Are Not Alone ride raised $39,032 for Breakthrough Mental Health Research Foundation, alongside a further $45,000 through sheep shearathon's.In Episode 6 of A Safe Space, Lenny joins hosts John Mannion and Leesa Scanlan to share the story behind his journey. Together, they explore how Lenny kept going through exhaustion, solitude and uncertainty, the connections he made along the way and what we can learn about supporting one another.Proudly sponsored by Rural Business Support.

This month marked 'Body Image and Eating Disorder Awareness Week' and in keeping with this theme, we invited Breakthrough Ambassadors Elise Thompson and Indya Dodd to share their lived experiences in Episode 5 of A Safe Space.Together with hosts John Mannion and Leesa Scanlan, they explore eating disorders, identity, recovery and the importance of holding hope.Indya is a registered nurse at the Royal Adelaide Hospital, while Elise is a clinical psychologist at her own practise and mother based in Renmark.Together, Indya and Elise reflect on recognising that an eating disorder was something they were experiencing, not who they were.  They discuss what helped them feel seen, the language that caused harm and how families and friends can offer meaningful support without having all the answers. As part of Breakthrough's involvement in the project, both shared their lived experience to help shape South Australia's new Statewide Residential Eating Disorder Centre, the first of its kind in the state.

What stories of strength, struggle and connection shape life in rural Australia?Hosts John Mannion and Leesa Scanlan are joined by fifth-generation farmer and Fat Farmers Co-founder Ben Wundersitz, and Justine Drew, Acting Director, Emergency Management, Drought and Resilience at Department of Primary Industry and Regions. Together, they explore the realities of country life, the pressures that often go unseen and the strength rural communities find through connection. It’s an honest conversation about resilience, community-led support and the power of asking, “How are you really going?”Proudly brought to you by Catapult Wealth, providing financial and succession planning to help families and businesses move forward with clarity and confidence.If this conversation raises anything for you, support is available. Contact Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 or Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 000.www.breakthroughfoundation.org.auwww.fatfarmers.comwww.pir.sa.gov.auwww.catapultwealth.com.au

In the inspiring third episode of Breakthrough’s A Safe Space podcast, hosts John Mannion and Leesa Scanlan are joined by Chris Bosley, Director of Sales and Marketing at Amorini and a proud member of Breakthrough’s Growth & Development Committee, and Mignon Furnell, co-founder of Kokoda Centurions.Through stories of resilience, courage and mateship, Chris and Mignon reflect on the physical and mental challenges of the Kokoda Track, the strength found in community and the importance of meaningful connection during life’s toughest moments.Together, they explore the power of taking one step at a time, supporting those around us and carrying the lessons of the trek long after the journey is over.If this conversation encourages you to check in with yourself or someone you care about, support is available:Lifeline: 13 11 14Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636This episode is proudly brought to you by Amorini, a partner and supporter of the Breakthrough Mental Health Research Foundation since 2021.2026 Kokoda Registrations are still open - click here to book now.

Episode 2 | Changing the Game: Speaking Openly About Suicide, Grief & HopeIn this powerful episode of A Safe Space, hosts John Mannion and Leesa Scanlan are joined by Dr Ian Zajac, Breakthrough Research Fellow in Men's Suicide Prevention, and James Thredgold, who shares his family's experience following the loss of his wife, Holly.Drawing on both lived experience and leading research, this candid and compassionate conversation explores the complex realities of suicide, grief and hope. Together, they discuss the emotional impact of losing someone to suicide, and the importance of meaningful support for those navigating loss.If this conversation raises concerns for you or someone you know, support is available. Lifeline: 13 11 14Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636Proudly sponsored by James Thredgold Jeweller. https://jamesthredgold.com.au/This episode is generously brought to you by James Thredgold Jewellers, Adelaide jewellers synonymous with craftsmanship, elegance, and South Australian artistry. Founded by James Thredgold, who is also our Breakthrough Ambassador, he has supported the organisation since its beginnings eight years ago. A man of many talents, James not only creates stunning jewellery, but also dedicates his time to advocating for change in mental health. Visit James Thredgold Jewellers, where timeless craftsmanship meets modern elegance, and every piece is made to be cherished for generations.