Hunter Valley miners back mental health at Cessnock fight night fundraiser

newy.com.au – More than 600 people are expected to pack East Cessnock Bowling Club from 5pm on Saturday 22 November for the third annual MATES in Mining Fight Night, as the Hunter Valley community rallies behind local miners and their families.

The grassroots boxing night, which began as a simple conversation in a mine crib room, has grown into one of the region’s most prominent community fundraisers, with organisers and supporters using it to back mental health and suicide prevention and to support families affected by recent tragedy.

Created by Cessnock couple Jodie and Ben Dederer, the event was originally driven by miners wanting something social and supportive for their workmates and community. Three years on, it has outgrown its original venue and become a highly anticipated date on the local calendar, drawing miners, families and residents together to check in on one another and contribute to a cause many in the industry see as close to home.

Funds raised on the night will go directly to the families of workers Shane O’Hearn and Craig Hugo, who were both tragically lost in 2024, as well as to the ongoing work of MATES in Mining across the resources industry. Organisers say the focus is on practical help, with money raised backing frontline programs aimed at early support and intervention.

MATES in Mining general manager Trent Bazley said the response from the Hunter Valley showed the industry’s commitment to looking after its own.

“Events like this show what the mining community is all about; looking out for your mates and stepping up when it matters,” Mr Bazley said. “The support behind this night reflects the heart and resilience of miners and their families.”

Mr Bazley said the fundraising would help the organisation continue its work on mine sites and in local communities, where conversations about mental health can still be difficult.

“Every dollar raised helps us reach more workers, talk openly about what is going on, and step in early when people need it,” he said.

The Mining and Energy Union (MEU) is backing the event, which organisers describe as more than just a fight night, with the evening designed to bring people together in a familiar setting while also prompting conversations about wellbeing and support.

On the night, attendees will be able to speak directly with MATES in Mining field officer Joel Furner and general manager Trent Bazley, who will be available for a chat and to answer questions about the program and how workers and families can get involved.

Official MATES in Mining merchandise will be on sale, with 100% of profits going back into delivering the organisation’s programs across the mining industry. Alongside direct fundraising for the O’Hearn and Hugo families, organisers say the merchandise is another way for supporters to contribute and show visible backing for the cause.

For those unable to attend in person, the fight night will be livestreamed so remote viewers can still take part in the fundraiser and follow the action from home.

The MATES in Mining Fight Night will begin from 5pm on Saturday 22 November at East Cessnock Bowling Club, with more than 600 people expected in the room and additional supporters watching online.