Nathan's story

I grew up on the South Coast, on Yuin Country. The coastline has always been a big part of who I am – surfing, playing footy, and spending time with family. There’s a spot I go to where the waves crash hard. It’s a place I use to drown out the head noise and reconnect with myself and Country.

About five or six years ago, I went through a relationship breakdown and lost access to my kids. My whole world came crashing down. I didn’t know how to cope. I learned the hard way how important it is to talk to someone. There’s no single answer or quick fix – it’s about meeting people where they’re at and having real conversations.

The best advice I can give is practical: reach out to someone you trust, or connect with a service that can help. Lived experience is powerful, and talking to someone can make a huge difference. I check in with my mates in different ways – sometimes it’s just a message saying, “How you going?” Being present matters.

You don’t always have to be strong. It’s not about putting on a brave face – it’s about staying connected and true to your character. Do the things that feed you, like I do with surfing and footy. Find a safe person or place that gives you space to open up. Don’t let things break your spirit. Stay connected. Stay strong.