Graham Thorpe, the former England cricketer’s death, by suicide, came as a shock to many. The world over, people are now beginning to realise that mental illness is a real disease and can affect anyone. Various organisations have now stepped in to raise awareness about this mental health condition that affects mood, thinking and behaviour.
In Australia, the Bellbirds Club Inc. is doing it with ‘A Spring Gala’ with the aim of raising awareness for Mental Illness and Suicide Prevention. This event will be held on Saturday, 7th September, at the Epping Club, in Sydney, Australia, and will feature several artistes, based in Australia, including Roger Menezes, Clifford Willenberg, Nihara Loos, Darrell De Silva, Gary Pietersz, Maryanne Graham, Michael Northwood and Reece Davis.
Roger Menezes, who is in Sri Lanka at the moment and performed at the Galadari Hotel, from May, this year, is very much active in Sydney. He says he still performs in Sydney, as a solo artiste, duo, or in a band situation. Roger Menezes: Heading for Australia this week “I’m doing a big one on 7th September, for charity – a black tie event.
I do private parties, anniversaries, birthdays, engagements, christenings – the whole spectrum. If there is music, I’m there.” Roger also mentioned that he does about 15 aged care retirement homes during the week – four days in the week, one hour concerts (mornings and afternoons).
“The old folks love the saxophone songs. It brings tears to their eyes.