Reilly O'Brien Honoured with the 2024 Jim Stynes Award for Mental Health Advocacy
Adelaide Crows ruckman, Reilly O'Brien, has been awarded the prestigious 2024 Jim Stynes Community Leadership Award for his outstanding work in mental health advocacy. This accolade, presented at the 2024 Brownlow Medal ceremony, recognises AFL players who make significant contributions to the community, embodying the values of the late Jim Stynes, a former Melbourne champion who left a lasting legacy both on and off the field.
O'Brien has been a prominent advocate for mental health, particularly with high school students across South Australia. Since 2022, he has served as a lead facilitator for the Open Parachute Mental Health Program, a vital initiative that aims to break down the stigma around mental health and encourage open conversations. Under his leadership, the program has expanded to reach more than 28,000 students, an impressive feat that demonstrates the importance of early mental health education.
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What makes O'Brien’s work so impactful is his willingness to share his own experiences with mental health challenges. His candidness has not only resonated with students but has also inspired his younger Adelaide teammates to engage in similar conversations. The result is a growing culture of vulnerability and support within the club and in the broader community—a key reason why O'Brien’s efforts are being celebrated.
Adelaide Crows CEO Tim Silvers expressed immense pride in O'Brien, noting that his dedication to prioritizing others and promoting mental well-being aligns with the club’s core values. O’Brien’s advocacy work reflects a commitment to helping individuals feel comfortable discussing their struggles, which can have life-changing effects for young people learning to navigate mental health issues.
AFL CEO Andrew Dillon also praised O'Brien for using his platform to make a significant difference, emphasizing the importance of tackling mental health issues early in life. With mental health challenges affecting two in five Australians at some point in their lives, the role of early education in fostering resilience and understanding cannot be overstated.
In addition to his work with Open Parachute, O'Brien has been involved in other social causes, including visiting Indigenous communities and supporting disability employment initiatives. His holistic approach to community service highlights a deep commitment to making a positive, lasting impact.
For his dedication, O'Brien will receive a $40,000 grant to donate to a charity or community program of his choice. This award is not just a recognition of his past work but a celebration of his continued efforts to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Reilly O'Brien truly exemplifies the spirit of the Jim Stynes Award, using his platform to prioritize the well-being of his community.
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