Construction industry and cricket legends gather to cement suicide prevention efforts

Paul Eyers
By Paul Eyers
3 Min Read

More than 720 construction experts will meet in Perth this week to raise awareness and funds for suicide prevention within the industry. 

The annual WA MATES Lunch has quickly become one of the most sought-after fundraising events in Australian construction, bringing together business owners, decision-makers, and tradies from all corners of the construction sector. 

Now in its ninth year, the meet-up has once again sold out weeks before commencement, with industry bodies and organisations eager to hammer home their support for suicide prevention and mental health. 

A MATES spokesperson told Build-it the lunch’s popularity showcased the intense level of support for making the industry safer from suicide.

“In 2023, The WA MATES Lunch sold out five weeks before the event, leading to a pre-registration list for tables for 2024. We have an anticipated attendance of 700+ people from across all industry sectors,” they said. 

“Please join the MATES WA team and your colleagues in celebrating another year of working together to keep our industry suicide safer.” 

glenn mcgrath
Aussie cricket legend Glenn McGrath will headline the buffet of guest speakers, speaking on his life experiences with mental health.

Attendees will be treated to a smorgasbord of guest speakers, including Aussie cricket legend Glenn McGrath AO, who was recently made an Officer of the Order of Australia for his courageous work raising awareness and funds for breast cancer research as well as his work as an international cricket coach. 

Regarded as one of the greatest cricketers of all time, Glenn achieved many milestones throughout his illustrious cricket career. He will speak about the incredible highs and shattering lows he has experienced as part of life’s journey. 

mates lunch
Hundreds of industry bodies, organisations and construction experts attend the WA MATES lunch every year in a bid to demolish the high rates of suicide within the sector.

The event will also welcome Master of Ceremonies, popular Auctioneer Tim Gossage, and several other high-profile and industry speakers. 

The occasion will occur at Crown Perth this Friday from noon, with a 3-course meal, beverages and entertainment, while allowing plenty of opportunities to network with industry experts and organisations. 

While tickets for the lunch itself are already sold out, limited sponsorship opportunities and information regarding pre-registration for 2025 tickets are still available. 

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Paul Eyers has worked as a journalist for a range of media publishers including News Corp and Network Ten. He has also worked outside of Australia, including time spent with ABS-CBN in the Philippines. Stepping away from the media, Paul spent five years sharpening his tools in construction - building his skill set and expertise within the trade industry. His diverse experiences and unique journey have equipped him with an insider view of Australia’s construction game to dig deep into the big stories.