Coach the Coach is a joint initiative of Goulburn Valley Family Care and the Goulburn Valley Football League. The training program uses beyondblue information materials to promote depression-awareness and positive mental health messages throughout the clubs in the league.

At all the grounds on Saturday, young volunteers will be wearing T shirts promoting beyondblue's youth website www.ybblue.com.au

They will be distributing material encouraging people to look out for each other and offer support if someone is having a rough time. Along with wristbands and flipper cards bearing the beyondblue and ybblue website addresses, there will be information on how to recognise the signs and symptoms of depression and where to get help.

beyondblue Chairman The Hon. Jeff Kennett said: "This is a fantastic opportunity to raise awareness of depression at country footy games where the community gets together. 

"People should know that even very fit athletes and tough country men can experience depression - and to ask for help is not a sign of weakness. The sooner you get the right treatment, the sooner you're on the road to recovery and kicking goals," he said.

Deputy CEO of beyondblue Dr Nicole Highet said: "We are pleased to be partnering with rural community groups and sporting organisations to let people know that effective treatments are available for depression and anxiety.   With one in five Australians likely to experience depression at some stage in their lives, it's important to get the message out that help is available."

For more information on depression, anxiety, related drug and alcohol problems, available treatments and where to get help, go to www.beyondblue.org.au  or www.ybblue.com.au or call the beyondblue info line 1300 22 4636 (local call).

Contacts: beyondblue 03 9810 6100 - Julie Foster or Nadine Bartholomeusz-Raymond