Yarnin’

Young men are at significant risk with notably high rates of suicide in the 16-25 age group. The risk is even higher for Indigenous men and Rural & Remote men. While 3 in 4 suicides are men, most suicide prevention services are more effective at reaching women at risk of suicide. In 2020, the Prime Minister’s National Suicide Prevention Advisor said: “The disproportionate impact of suicide on males must be called out as a priority for whole-of-government attention.” and his advice to governments was clear and unequivocal: “All jurisdictions [should] commit to priority actions for male suicide prevention to be incorporated into the National Suicide Prevention Strategy.” The new National Suicide Prevention strategy was published in May 2025. Just 3 of the 117 actions specifically mention men or men’s services.

YARNIN’ will ignite a cultural shift among 15–25-year-old Australian sports fans, especially football lovers, encouraging open conversations about issues that matter.
With male suicide the leading cause of death for Australian men, societal pressures have taught boys to “man up”, while grown men are expected to connect emotionally—skills many never develop. This imbalance is pushing men to seek guidance online and within social media, losing touch with face-to-face connection and driving up addictions to social media, gambling, drugs, alcohol, pornography and gaming. YARNIN’ demonstrates the power of real and authentic conversations, showing how meaningful dialogue – across cultures and differences – can equip young Australians to confront modern challenges, foster belonging, and thrive.

YARNIN’ is a bold and timely antidote to the toxic influences saturating young Australians’ online worlds. At a time when harmful voices dominate algorithms, we’re offering something radically different: real stories, from real young men, in real places – from the heart of the Red Centre, to the bright lights of AFL stadiums. What sets YARNIN’ apart is its authentic, culturally grounded storytelling, shaped by the voices and lived experiences of our collaborators – including respected Journalist Ryan Liddle from Luritja Country, Community Leader Craig Jupurrula Woods from Mutitjulu, Indigenous Language Academic, Clayton (Warrianha) Cruse, the NPY Women’s Council, Iwiri Choir, Port Adelaide Football Club, and AFL Studios.

Unlike other projects that hope to find an audience, YARNIN’ meets young people exactly where they are: on YouTube, AFL Plus, and social channels they trust and actively engage with. Our series cuts through the noise by offering emotional honesty and humour.

YARNIN’s producers – Ryan Liddle (Luritja man, ABC Alice Springs Editor), Craig Jupurulla Woods (Mutitjulu man, Uluru Ranger), and Adam Morgan (Owner, Imara Films)—have deep, decades-long connections to the communities featured in YARNIN’.
Adam Morgan first worked with Anangu Mob in the late 1990s as a footy coach at Lockleys Football Club and a youth worker for the Wiltja Residential Program, where Craig was a student. In 1999, Adam and his late son James visited the APY Lands to promote Wiltja and umpire a football carnival, forging lasting relationships with over 16 APY communities.
Ryan and Craig are lifelong friends, with family ties to each other and across the region. Ryan and Adam have collaborated on screen productions and voiceovers for over a decade. Adam’s extensive football career as a Level 3 AFL Coach, includes coaching, leadership, and SANFL roles, while Ryan and Craig’s familial and professional connections ensure authentic access to all communities involved in YARNIN’.

Engage in Team Sports & Activities: Get involved in football or any team sport to build connections, authentic experiences, and develop resilience. If you’re already part of a team, deepen your involvement—stay after games to watch and reflect with friends, teammates and mentors.
Open Up About Your Feelings: Share your emotions, challenges, and victories with teammates, friends, and family. Conversations can help build understanding and mutual support.
Ask for Help When Needed: Reach out to trusted individuals, mentors, or mental health resources when you’re struggling. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Foster Empathy and Unity: We’re all facing struggles and need each other, no matter the colour of our skin. Recognise our shared humanity and strength in diversity.
Learn About and Appreciate Other Cultures: Take the time to understand cultures different from your own. Building connections across cultural boundaries can lead to powerful friendships and insights.