Former police officer auctions off Cowboy’s football for mental health awareness

After the sudden death of NRL icon Paul Green, one Townsville man was inspired to help. Find out how he’s tackling mental health through rugby league >>

AFTER the sudden death of NRL icon Paul Green, one Townsville man was inspired to help.

Former police officer Shane Martin had opened his phone to the news of the passing of Paul Green on Thursday.

The Townsville resident, who heads the group Supporting Those Who Support the Community (STWSTC), had just picked up an autographed Steeden donated by the Cowboys community team for the charity when the news flashed on his screen.

He said he felt so moved to help that he decided to use the ball as part of an auction with all funds would be donated to a mental health support group.

“I battle with mental health issues myself, and I knew within the short amount of time (since hearing of Green’s death) that I wanted to honour the memory of Paul Green and perhaps save someone else’s life,” Mr Martin said.

“This 2022 signature ball was donated by North Queensland Toyota Cowboys and it just feels right to auction it to prevent further suicides.”

The ball is donned with printed signatures of Cowboys team members.

Auction for Paul Green

Mr Martin said his charity, STWSTC predominantly focused on auctioning off sporting memorabilia, with the funds going towards helping veterans, first responders and frontline health care workers facing challenges.

He said nobody, not even celebrities such as Green, were immune from personal battles with mental health.

“I want to honour them for what they’ve done for the community, and acknowledge their leadership and the image they represent to young people,” he said.

“They’re human beings and they’re subject to emotions just like the rest of us,

He said the winning bidder would decide which organisation the funds would go to.

Green passed away at his Brisbane home on Thursday, aged 49.

Auction for Paul Green

His family spoke to News Corp saying they were “devastated” by his passing.

“We have lost a devoted husband, loving father and wonderful brother and son. We cannot find the words that would come close to expressing our feelings, however we would like to extend our thanks to those who have reached out to us with their love and support,” they said in a statement.

To find out more or to place a bid, go to: https://bit.ly/3QE8A5j

If you or someone you know needs help, reach out to:

Lifeline: 13 11 14

Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636

Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800

Originally published as Former police officer auctions off Cowboy’s football for mental health awareness