A Family Run Event Kicking Serious Fundraising Goals.
In its sixth year of creating some fundraising magic, Groove Away The Blues is one fantastic event! This year, it will be held at the Mittagong RSL on Saturday 9 September and tickets are already moving fast. So good to see the local community getting behind such an important cause.
And who’s behind the event? The amazing Gennene Turner (she might not see herself that way, but we do!), owner of local biz Highlands Health Club. Gennene and her family pull together an incredible program of entertainment and fundraising every year to raise money for the Black Dog Institute, in memory of her brother.
We spoke to Gennene about this fab event, and how helping others has helped her heal.
Gennene and her daughter, Demi-Lea
1 :: Where did the inspiration come from to create Groove Away The Blues?
The idea for it was born out of losing my own brother to suicide 25 years ago when there was not a lot of help out there for people suffering with depression, so naturally, when I heard about Black Dog Institute and what they are about and the things that they do, I wanted to help by raising funds for them in the hope that by increasing awareness & education in our local community about mental health, and reducing the stigma that is attached to mental health, it will save other families from having to go through the pain, guilt, heartache & unanswered questions that my family has endured for the last 25 years.
If I can save just one person from feeling that suicide is the only way out of the darkness by organising this event each year than that is a win for me.
2 :: Tell us about your brother.
You know, he was the life of the party. He hid what he was going through so well, which was normal for back in those days. It’s a generational thing. So many men have been told to toughen up, don’t cry, just get through it…….. my brother was taught to hide his feelings. He didn’t know how to reach out and ask for help. And we didn’t know he was in such a dark place.
3 :: Groove Away The Blues is in its sixth year. What can people expect from the event this year?
There’s plenty happening, that’s for sure! The theme this year is The Great Gatsby Masquerade Ball and it’s black tie, [who doesn’t love an excuse to dress up?]
The party starts with a glass of bubbly and appetisers upon arrival, followed by a delectable seated dinner and desserts, as well as drinks flowing all night long.
Exciting news this year: Angela Walsh, host of the podcast The Downhill Slide, will be our MC! We’ll also have the honour of meeting Joan Cameron-Smith from Black Dog Institute, who will be sharing insights on fund usage and taking your questions.
Last year’s event rocked, but this year, we’re setting the bar even higher to help more folks struggling with mental health. Get ready for awesome prizes! Show your support through pledges, join our live and silent auctions, and buy a balloon for a chance to win a two-night stay at The Wine Country Villas in Hunter Valley, including breakfast for two.
Entertainment includes performances from Empress Stah, Michelle Cashman, Redhill Band and Bronwyn Wray.
4 :: There is so much entertainment on the night which is fantastic. How did you choose the name ‘Groove Away The Blues’?
After my first daughter was born, I suffered from PND. That was 25 years ago, and most people back then didn’t know what PND was or how to deal with it.
I knew I wasn’t feeling right but music would help me get through the day. When I was feeling low, I would play a certain song – Step By Step by Whitney Houston it was – and it would help.
I didn’t ask for help. I was embarrassed. I felt like a failure as a mother but thankfully I recognised I wasn’t in a good place so worked on my own mindset to help pull myself back out of it, and music helped with that.
Since then, it’s always played a big part in my life and what I do, so using music and dance as a way to celebrate something or help people feel better speaks to me.
5 :: How has creating this legacy helped you and your family?
It’s been such a great experience for us all. My husband, Paul is involved. My daughter Demi-Lea does all the flyers and artwork for me. She puts the program together, does the banners and does an amazing job. My son Luke and other daughter, Bree are also involved.
My husband, Paul has suffered from PTSD, depression and anxiety which is another reason why I do this event. I’ve seen him improve so much in the last few years. He went and got help and his involvement in organising Groove Away The Blues has really seen him blossom.
And he talks about it now, with other people. He talks to people about what they’re going through. He knows he’s not the only going through this and helps people who may be going through a tough time feel less alone too. It’s so important to talk.
Gennene with husband, Paul.
6 :: There have been plenty of local businesses helping out too.
Oh yes, so many. I wish I could mention them all and if you come along on the night, I definitely will! A few to mention here include Highlands Sand & Soil, Luminous Entertainment, Custom Printing, Domin8 Concrete Pumping and Warren Gannon Photography.
Some new sponsors include Focus Wealth Group, The Techery and Revitalize Cryotherapy. Most of these companies are family run and to have them donate towards the fundraiser in some way means so much.
7 :: What does seeing an event like this come together mean to you?
This has helped me heal. It’s taken a long time to come to terms with losing my brother. The grief is still very raw, and you never get over losing someone close to you like that but helping other people has helped me help myself.
Tickets to the Groove Away The Blues Masquerade Ball at the Mittagong RSL are selling fast! Head here to grab your ticket and be part of an amazing, local fundraiser.
Gennene and her three children [L to R] Luke, Bree and Demi-Lea.