Our local golf clubs around the country do an amazing amount of fundraising for great causes. Hawks Nest Golf Club, a hidden gem located an hour north of Newcastle, is one of those - proud to partner with the inspirational team at the Blue Tree Project, a collaboration made even more meaningful with the recent formation of the R We Ok group.

The club is home to the Hawks Nest Golf Club Social Club, whose members meet weekly for darts, fishing, and golf. Social Club President Phil Jones first discovered the Blue Tree Project during a golf trip to Tasmania. Moved by its mission and powerful message, “Seeing the Blue Trees in Tasmania really struck a chord with me,” said Social Club President Phil Jones. “They’re a simple but powerful reminder to check in with your mates. If painting a tree blue helps start even one conversation that could make a difference, then it’s absolutely worth doing.” He approached the Board of Directors, who were immediately supportive of bringing the initiative to Hawks Nest

The Blue Tree Project is a charity dedicated to breaking the silence and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and suicide. What began as a grassroots movement in Western Australia has grown into a global initiative, sparking conversations and inspiring communities world-wide.

In 2025, Hawks Nest Golf Club members proudly launched a new community initiative, R We Ok. Founded by long-term member Ray Tisdell, the group was created to encourage men to come together on the last Friday of each month in a relaxed, non‑judgmental, and enjoyable environment. “Sometimes blokes just need a place where they can sit down, have a chat and know they’re not alone,” said founder Ray Tisdell. “R We Ok is about mates looking out for mates and creating the kind of environment where people feel comfortable opening up if they want to.”

What started as a small gathering of eight mates has now grown to around 30 regular participants, highlighting the strong community need for connection and conversation.

R We Ok has recently partnered with the Blue Tree Project, further strengthening its commitment to mental health awareness and meaningful dialogue. Together, they aim to foster connection, reduce stigma, and remind men that it’s okay not to be okay - and that support is always close by.

Hawks Nest Golf Club President Bill Hart said the club was proud to support initiatives that strengthen the wellbeing of not only its members but also the wider community.

“As a club, we’re about far more than just golf,” said Hart. “Programs like R We Ok and the Blue Tree Project show the strength of our community. If we can help create a space where people feel supported and comfortable talking about mental health, then we’re doing something truly worthwhile.”

Through mateship, community spirit, and open conversation, Hawks Nest Golf Club continues to show that sometimes the most important moments happen well beyond the fairways.