Tamworth Magpies mental health donation to headspace

Tamworth Rugby Club raised $8000 by auctioning off special-edition jerseys and Tamworth headspace manager James Reilly was over the moon with the donation.

"It speaks volume to what they do for the community," Mr Reilly said.

"We're not fully funded, so we do have to seek support from our community. To have the Tamworth Magpies actually being so active and willing to get in to support us is incredible."

The donation will be used to expand headspace's dietitian program across the region.

"It's estimated there are a million people with eating disorders in Australia currently and we have seen an increase in our numbers locally, particularly in young people," Mr Reilly said.

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Aside from the monetary value, Mr Reilly said there were also benefits to the community by showcasing mental health awareness in such a positive way.

"The enthusiasm they have towards mental health and well being of young people is something we are just so grateful for," he said.

"It helps to over come the stigma of mental health."

Tamworth Rugby Club functions coordinator Simon Upton said the club was very proud of the partnership and was exploring ways to grow their relationship.

"Particularly as a community group to give back to another community group," she said.

"Headspace day is something the players are very proud of and very keen to get involved with every year.

"It's also something out coaching staff look at, in terms of mental health and getting the boys to look out for each other."

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Tamworth headspace will soon welcome a new four-legged friend, when Pavlov the therapy dog finishes his training.

The cuddly councillor was bought with the $10,000 the Tamworth Magpies raised for the organisation last year.

Pavlov is a Tamaruke, a purpose-bred dog that is hypo-allergenic, loyal, friendly and intelligent. He's currently up in Queensland, where he will get at least seven months of training.

Tamworth headspace is expecting Pavlov to his start "employment" in July.