Former Opposition Leader David Speirs to host first public event since drugs case to raise money for his Kokoda Track trek

Former Opposition leader David Speirs is hosting a Spanish-themed soiree –his first public appearance since his drugs case.

Former Opposition leader David Speirs is hosting his first public event since his drugs case to help raise money for his trek along the Kokoda Track.

Mr Speirs, 40, will next month host a paella, wine and jazz night as part of his donation push for men’s mental health.

The event, at Marino Community Hall, is believed to be his first official public appearance since he was convicted earlier this year of two counts of supplying cocaine and fined $9000.

David Speirs is training for hiking the Kokoda Track in August 2025 to raise funds, awareness and support for mental health Picture: Facebook

Tickets to the southern suburbs event, in support of the walk for Breakthrough Mental Health Research Foundation and The Man Cave charity, cost $70 or $55 for concessions.

He will join the inaugural walk next month of not-for-profit organisation Kokoda Centurions, which is raising money for the two organisations.

In a post on social media this week, Mr Speirs said every dollar counted.

David Speirs holding a fundraising dinner to raise funds for his Kokoda trek for Men's Mental Health.

Mr Speirs was Liberal leader for more than two years. Picture: Tom McGann

“Join me on 14th August for a winter’s evening of paella, wine and jazz to raise funds for men’s mental health research and awareness,” he said.

“I’m hosting a fundraising event at the Marino Community Hall in the lead up to my Kokoda trek.

“You’ll hear from me and others about what our trek is all about and why we’re supporting the Breakthrough Mental Health Research Foundation and The Man Cave.

“If you can’t make it but still want to donate, every dollar counts.

“You can make a donation also via the link in my (Instagram) bio.”

The former Liberal MP, who led his party for more than two years before he resigned, has spoken openly about his mental health battles.

Announcing his trek this month, he told how he hoped “to move towards a personal journey of restoration and renewal”.

“For a long time, there has been a stigma that surrounds mental health struggles, especially for men,” Mr Speirs wrote.

“Life can be real tough sometimes.

“Things happen which are sometimes within our control and sometimes outside of our control and often a bit of both.

“This can lead people to dark and scary places. I know. I’ve been there. Some days I still find myself there.

“But I’m doing well overall thanks to the incredible support I’ve received from across our community.”

Breakthrough is Australia’s only foundation purely focused on raising money to invest in life-changing mental health research.

One of the primary goals of The Man Cave is preventing gender-based violence and promoting healthy masculinity.

He has already raised more than $2000 towards Kokoda Centurions, and the group of more than 50 hikers has raised more than $60,000 for its two charities.

Mr Speirs, who will host his event on Thursday, August 14, declined to comment.

Originally published as Former Opposition Leader David Speirs to host first public event since drugs case to raise money for his Kokoda Track trek