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Fundraiser concert to honour an Albany music legend shares important mental health message

Headshot of Shannon Smith
Shannon SmithAlbany Advertiser
Event co-organiser Tress Paisley, centre, with Jo Ledger, Jo Brown and The Numbats' Paul Cook and Tom Edwards.
Camera IconEvent co-organiser Tress Paisley, centre, with Jo Ledger, Jo Brown and The Numbats' Paul Cook and Tom Edwards. Credit: Laurie Benson/Albany Advertiser, Laurie Benson

The RU OK Albany fundraiser will honour the memory of the late Glen Wellman in fitting musical style.

But it also aims to make sure no more lives in Albany are lost to the “black dog”.

Mr Wellman was a passionate musician who sadly took his own life in January 2015 after a long battle with depression.

In 2016 — and in the years since — his friends and family have hosted a memorial concert to raise money for suicide prevention and mental health awareness.

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Fundraising team member Tress Paisley said the concert aimed to help anyone and everyone struggling with their mental health.

“It is extremely hard to lose someone you love to suicide.” she said.

“We want to connect with people in the community, encouraging people to seek help if they are struggling with mental health problems and suicidal feelings.”

She said Mr Wellman brought out the best in people. Last year, the first co-ordinator of the fundraiser and another beloved Albany muso, David Morrison, also sadly died.

His son and fellow musician Wade Morrison has taken over as co-ordinator. Local musicians The Numbats, Tress 'n' Damo & co, Tre Amici, EXP, and Trash Pandah will perform.

Entry is $20, with funds going to the Albany Depression Support Network.

The fundraiser will run from 5.30pm-midnight at Centennial Stadium on Saturday next week.

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