More Than an Event: A Legacy Begins at FCJ College

On Thursday 27 November, FCJ College openedits gates not only to the school community, but to the wider region as it proudly hosted its first Men’s Mental Health Evening — a powerful, free public event initiated by our 2025 College Captain, Walter Jackson. What began as a simple question posed at the Catholic Education Sandhurst Student Leaders Day has grown into a legacy that will continue to shape our community for years to come.

At the leaders’ gathering in Shepparton earlier this year, Walter was asked: “What is the legacy you want to leave behind?”

Reflecting on the day, he said:

“The day was great — catching up with friends and having a laugh — but when the talking started, that one question stuck with me. What could I do that might actually make a difference? What could become a tradition? What could help people long after I’ve left FCJ College?”

The answer came quickly.

“The first thing I thought of was men’s mental health. It’s affected my family, my community, and it’s something I believe needs to be spoken about more openly.”

Growing up in rural Victoria, Walter understands the cultural challenges that still exist around men’s mental health— the pressure to be stoic, self-reliant, and “tough.” This is compounded by isolation, limited access to services, distance to counsellors and psychologists, and concern about privacy when seeking help in small communities.

Determined to challenge these attitudes, Walter turned his idea into action. Over several months, he worked behind the scenes, making calls and sending emails before securing former AFL premiership player and mental health advocate Tom Boyd to speak in our town.

On the night, Walter shared:

“Many of you know Tom’s story. He stood on the biggest stage in the country and achieved what so many young players dream of — and then had the courage to speak openly about his mental health challenges. He didn’t hide behind the ‘toughen up’ attitude. He didn’t pretend everything was fine.”

Reading Tom’s book inspired Walter to bring the same conversation to his community:

“If he could stand up and change the way people think, then maybe I could help start that conversation at FCJ College. This became my footprint — talking about men’s mental health, breaking the old mindset, creating a space where people feel safe to speak up.”

Principal Mr Joseph Mount reflected:

“Walter approached me earlier this year with an idea. He wanted to use his influence as School Co-Captain to help others —not only during 2025 but beyond it. He envisioned creating an evening to promote open dialogue around men’s mental health. Walter’s dedication reflects his leadership style: humble, generous, and genuinely focused on making a difference.

My role, and that of our Community Engagement Officer, Kristy Hanrahan, was simply to support him and stay out of his way. I wanted the night to carry Walter’s voice, the authentic perspective of an18-year-old leader. He was the perfect Master of Ceremonies, connected both to our presenter and to the audience of over 170 people.

Men’s mental health affects every family, and Walter has created a space to inform, listen, and reflect. His leadership has reached beyond the classroom into sporting clubs, families, and the wider region, showing what is possible when a young person uses their voice to make a positive impact. Good on you, Walter.”

The evening resonated across year levels. Year 8 student Henry reflected:

“No matter the expectations on you, you have to listen to how you’re feeling and not ignore when you’re not okay.”

2026 Social Justice Captain Freya added:

“Tom’s speech was inspiring and insightful. I would love to see this night become an annual tradition and look forward to using my influence as Social Justice Captain to help make that happen. Raising awareness about mental health is so important — to build stronger communities and encourage people to seek help without stigma. I hope this evening continues to grow and reach even further into our wider community.”

Darren Skelton, a parent and Benalla Bushrangers coach, reinforced the message:

“When young men feel safe to speak openly about their wellbeing and mental health, it strengthens both the team and the wider community. Strong male mentors and coaches play a crucial role in showing young men that asking for help isn’t a weakness—it’s a strength. Events like this start important conversations and remind us that it’s completely okay not to be okay.”

During his address, Tom Boyd shared the words he once said to his teammates when he retired:

“You are the reason I stuck it out for so long, not the reason I am leaving.”

His message reminded everyone that while strong relationships can support us through difficult times, ultimately we must make the choices that are best for our own mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing — even if it is a tough decision to make.

The evening concluded with a relaxed, free BBQ set against the stunning backdrop of the school grounds — a chance for people to connect, reflect, and continue the conversation.

FCJ College sincerely thanks the Benalla Bushrangers Cricket Club, Euroa Cricket Club, Euroa Medical, Willy J’s Equine Education, and HJ Farrier Services for their generosity and support. Above all, we congratulate Walter on creating something truly remarkable. In his own words:

“Even if one person hears this message tonight and feels a little less alone and makes that step to talk to someone and get help, then that’s already a step in the right direction.”

This is not just an event.
This is a legacy.

‍