R U Ok? Day - 14 September 2023

Be Here to Hear, Because a Conversation Could Change a Life

Be Here to Hear, Because a Conversation Could Change a Life

R U OK? Day, held on the second Thursday of September each year, serves as a powerful reminder for us all to pause and reflect on the importance of slowing down, asking a simple question and actively listening to the people we care about. At Southport Sharks, our community is at the heart of what we do, and we are proud to support this important cause.

In 1995, Gavin Larkin tragically lost his father to suicide. The pain and grief of that loss motivated Gavin to act and in 2009, he decided to honour his father’s memory and protect other families from similar heartache by championing one question: “Are you OK?”

Life can be overwhelming with its demands – work, school, sport and daily routines. It’s easy to forget to check in on those around us. That’s why today the Southport Sharks team are taking the time to focus on reaching out to each other and ourselves. A simple conversation, as we know, can be a lifeline for someone who might be silently struggling.

To learn more about R U OK? Day, please visit www.ruok.org.au. If you or someone you know is struggling, remember that you can always speak confidentially with a professional at Lifeline by calling 13 11 14.

Similar Articles

These articles are similar to the one you are reading.

This week marks the end of an era, as Rick Fankhauser steps down from his position—closing a remarkable chapter of leadership, legacy, and lifelong dedication.

The Southport Sharks would like to congratulate VFL Vice-Captain Zac Foot who is set to play his 50th game for the club this Saturday against the Gold Coast Suns.

Southport Sharks is proud to announce Emma Robertson as the winner of the 2025 Golden Shark – Employee of the Year.

A small donation, a life-changing impact! Thanks to the Southport Sharks Community Benefits Fund, the Gold Coast Hospital Foundation now has MEQU Warmer Systems—critical technology that helps deliver emergency blood transfusions faster and safer than ever.

Southport Sharks is excited to reintroduce our Community Benefits Fund, with Macleods Refuge as our newest charity partner. This Gold Coast-based not-for-profit provides safe emergency accommodation for women and children escaping family violence.

Southport Sharks has launched the Gold Coast Sports Tech Open Innovation Challenge—giving local startups the chance to trial real-world solutions inside an elite football environment. This is where bold ideas meet high-performance sport.

Bridging the gap between education and real-world experience. Through our Community Study and Development Program, Southport Sharks has partnered with Griffith University to provide students with valuable, hands-on hospitality and marketing experience.

Southport Sharks is thrilled to announce that we will be hosting Laneway Festival on Saturday, 7 February 2026! Since 2007, Laneway Festival has been a leader in the Brisbane summer cultural calendar, and for the first time the Gold Coast will now become the home of this iconic event. As an over 1...

Southport Sharks has been named a finalist for Gold Coast’s Best Sporting Club at the 57th Gold Coast Sports Awards

This week the AFL released its 2025 participation data, confirming that Aussie Rules has hit a national record of 625,000 participants.

A new chapter in our commitment to community care. Southport Sharks is proud to expand our partnership with the Gold Coast Hospital Foundation, with Mantra at Sharks now serving as the Foundation’s Emergency Accommodation Provider.

Southport Sharks’ new DOSA is now open — a spacious, light-filled area with lounge seating, bar tables, and permanent overhead heaters. Accessible to the left, past the Gaming Cashier via button-operated doors.