General News
23 October, 2026
Champ opens up
FIVE-time Olympic gold medallist Ian Thorpe has spoken about his personal battle with depression and the pressures of elite sport at a mental health fundraising lunch in Cairns.
Speaking at last Friday’s inaugural The Junction ‘Connection Lunch’, Thorpe discussed how mental health challenges led to his early retirement and urged Far North Queenslanders to speak openly about their struggles.
“I retired at quite a young age and part of that was actually due to my own mental health,” Thorpe said.
The former swimming champion, who set 22 world records, revealed that some of his most difficult periods coincided with his greatest sporting achievements.
He described experiencing depression and suicidal thoughts despite appearing outwardly successful.
Thorpe said mental health support in elite sport had improved considerably since his swimming career, with greater recognition of athletes’ wellbeing and the pressures of competition.
He also spoke about managing difficult days through simple daily routines, such as getting out of bed, walking his dog, gardening and cooking.
“Write it on a good day when you’re in good mental health,” he advised attendees about preparing a personal checklist.
“Make it really specific to what you think you can do or what you could do on a bad day,” he said.
Thorpe said that allowing himself time to recover, without unrealistic expectations, was an important part of maintaining his mental health.
“There isn’t a one-size-fits-all kind of solution in this area,” he said.
Former federal MP Warren Entsch also addressed the gathering, highlighting The Junction Clubhouse’s work supporting people with mental illness throughout Far North Queensland.
“We have 300 members there,” Mr Entsch said.
He outlined the organisation’s relationship with Queensland Health, including a recently signed memorandum of understanding recognising its services.
The event featured live and silent auctions and raffles, raising funds for The Junction’s community mental health programs.
Mr Entsch welcomed the turn-out and confirmed plans to make the lunch an annual event.
“It will be an annual event, and thank you for the full house here, which is fantastic,” he said.
The Junction will continue to strengthen community connections and provide support for people experiencing mental illness across the region.
