GMHBA and the Geelong Cats are expanding their partnership with The Resilience Project, with seven additional schools across Geelong and Colac joining in 2026 - taking the total reach to more than 4,000 students.

The partnership launched in 2024 in five schools, combining GMHBA investment with support from Cats AFL and AFLW players, who bring the program to life through school visits and sharing lived experiences.

New schools include Bell Park North Primary School, Lara Secondary College, Mirripoa Primary School, North Geelong Secondary College, Rollins Primary School, Colac South West Primary School and St Brendan’s School, Coragulac.

Through the partnership, schools receive presentations from Martin Heppell, a year-long wellbeing program tailored by year level, teacher wellbeing support, digital resources for families, and visits from Geelong Cats players focused on resilience and mental health.

TRP aims to reduce bullying, poor school connectedness, financial hardship, racial discrimination and child maltreatment.

Entering its third year, the program has helped build resilience and wellbeing skills for thousands of local students.

The delivery of TRP’s School Wellbeing Program is achieved through an investment from GMHBA and the support of Geelong Cats AFL and AFLW players.

TRP presenter Martin Heppell and Cats players engaged directly with students at the expanded program launch at GMHBA Stadium, with the activities running from April 20 to 23. 

Geelong Football Club CEO Steve Hocking said: “We’re excited to once again welcome thousands of students to GMHBA Stadium as the program continues to grow.”

“Seeing students and community members embrace these strategies to help strengthen their wellbeing and resilience skills, and develop a healthier mindset, demonstrates what is possible through these initiatives.

"The impact of this program extends far beyond the field and highlights how our sport can be a powerful tool for positive change throughout the wider community.”