Sporting Career

 

Born in WA, I developed an early passion for sport, rising through the ranks at Roleystone and East Perth Football Clubs while representing the state in athletics. Late in 1991 I was drafted by Fitzroy Football Club and relocated to Victoria. I debuted in the AFL with Fitzroy in 1992, before continuing my career at Melbourne Football Club from 1994 until my retirement in 2000. I played over 140 AFL games, including three appearances representing Western Australia in State of Origin.

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Sometimes, we need someone to talk to.

In times of challenge, having someone to reach out to for support can be one of the most powerful steps toward the recovery journey. During a particularly difficult period in my career, I found myself turning to people like Cameron Butler at the Melbourne Football Club for guidance and encouragement. Their wisdom, compassion, and unwavering support provided me with shoulders to lean on, demonstrating the profound impact that seeking help can have.

 

"Star player Marcus Seecamp appreciates Cameron’s input into his career. ‘There’s a lot of pressure on professional sports people to perform nowadays,’ Seecamp says, ‘and you’ll find that a lot of young kids, if they don’t get the right teaching, they can tend to fall in this pressure hold. It’s like you’re not living up to people’s expectations. I went through that… I spoke to Cameron about it and he really helped me along.

‘He probably got me out of it, because I didn’t feel like approaching the coach or someone within the football administration. It was good to have Cameron there—it gives players an opportunity to meet with someone outside the football club who’s got a mutual understanding of problems we face.’" Article by Adrian Brookes

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Post-Retirement and Mental Health Expertise

 

Retirement from professional sports often presents challenges, but I embraced the opportunity to channel my experiences into a new mission: helping others navigate through mental health challenges and disadvantage. I first completed Mental Health First Aid training in 2004, and still have my original MHFA manual. Over the past two decades, I have gained invaluable insight into community-based mental health services along with the specific needs of the broader public. More recent completion of a Diploma of Psychological Science with distinction and a Graduate Diploma of Psychology (Advanced) along with Mental Health First Aid instructor training enables me to confidently provide evidence-based solutions for mental health first aid and conflict resolution.

 

Leadership 

 

Following my AFL career, I have built a career in community services, working in senior and executive management positions. I have worked closely with people with disability and their support networks, using a person-centred and empathetic approach to develop effective and impactful services. My leadership in this space has cemented my reputation as experienced in both teamwork and mental health and wellness.

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Comprehensive Training Programmes

 

Throughout Australia, I have designed and delivered tailored mental health first aid and conflict management training programmes that integrate theoretical knowledge with everyday situations. I engage participants to ensure they not only understand the material but are confidently able to implement these strategies in their daily lives—whether at work, in sports, or in their communities.

 

Advocacy and Public Speaking

 

Beyond training, I am a passionate advocate for mental health awareness. I often speak at conferences, community events, and within sporting clubs to break down the stigma surrounding mental health. My journey from AFL player to mental health professional resonates with diverse audiences and continues to inspire individuals to prioritise their well-being. 

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Person-centred

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My transformation from AFL athlete to mental health professional reflects adaptability, resilience, and a lifelong commitment to academia and helping others. I continue to advocate for mental health with a message of hope and empowerment, creating lasting positive impacts for individuals facing mental health challenges. I look forward to extending my reach and inspiring more people on their path to become mental health first aiders.

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​I'm always looking for new and exciting opportunities. Let's connect.