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The mental health of men living and working in regional Australia will be the topic of a John Wood-led play in Heathcote next month.
The Gold Logie-winning Blue Heelers actor will star in a free community performance of Carpe Diem at the Heathcote RSL on March 21.
The event is part of Heathcote Health’s annual mental wellbeing program.
The work of playwright Megan Rigoni, Carpe Diem tells the story of friends Nev and John, a hard working farmer and stock agent both impacted by a long-running drought.
Mr Wood said it was “a very Australian thing” not to ask after another person’s state of mind.
“But men need to ask the questions and not ignore their apparent depression or inner pain,” the actor said.
Co-star Chris Pidd, who is also general manager at Lifeline in Albury, expected the play to break down the stigma attached to mental illness.
“The play depicts so beautifully how two mates can help each other in times of need.”
Doors open at 7pm. The performance will be followed by supper and a Q&A with the actors.