James Petrie Fund launched in his memory

James Petrie was one of the most respected, loved and compassionate men you would ever meet. He always had the remarkable ability to light up a room. James grew up in Ballarat in a loving family and was always the cheeky and adventurous one. As the family grew, he became the fun uncle to 7 nieces and nephews.

James was a Ballarat teacher and leader in sport and for young people. James was heavily involved in community sports and fitness. He was an advocate for good mental health and was never shy of fitness challenge. He inspired many others to achieve their fitness and mental health goals too.

His strong leadership skills were also shown on and off the football field, as he was a respected player, coach and mentor within both the Ballarat Nth Soccer Club for 12 years and the Waubra Football Club for 10 years. James had a keen interest in travel and outdoor adventures. This led to travel experiences throughout Australia and across the globe in Europe and the UK. His passion for the outdoors and physical challenges also led to James initiating Ballarat High School’s first Kokoda trek experience for a group of students in 2019.

When James found himself in the depths of depression, he continued to be proactive and to use a variety of tools, resources and professional help to find a way out of the darkness which had consumed his life. High functioning depression may not always look like depression and can easily go unnoticed to those who are unaware, and James was good at putting on a brave face. He was caught in an overwhelming and ongoing battle which he sadly lost in February 2022.

Community donations to the fund are now being received. Peach’s Run, a fundraising event in support of the James Petrie Fund will be held on Saturday 11th November 2023. For more information click below.