WHEN local netballer Sophie Bradbery lost her brother Nicholas Johnson to suicide three years ago, she made a pact to raise awareness and funds for mental health and wellbeing.
The 27-year old official from Port Stephens Netball Association (PSNA) has played a pivotal role in fostering open conversations and breaking down stigma through community action.
Sophie, the daughter of PSNA president Jodi Cassar, has helped the region’s netball community raise more than $20,000 over the past two years in her role as event co-ordinator of the association’s annual Health and Wellbeing round.
In recognition of her sterling efforts, the Bradson Netball Club identity was named joint winner of the Netball NSW Community Volunteer of the Year Award.
Sophie, who is from Karuah, shared the award with Julia Morrissey of Bathurst Netball Association.
Both were honoured at the recent Netball NSW Awards Night at Bankstown Sports Club and received their trophies from NSW Sports Minister Steve Kamper.
In addition to the Health and Wellbeing round, Sophie helped raise much-needed funds for UMatter_awareness in 2024 and this year co-ordinated the Talk2MeBro Jupiter Australia event.
Players, coaches, officials, volunteers and administrators from across the state joined special guests including Diamonds and NSW Swifts star Paige Hadley and talented Giants defender Erin O’Brien, in celebrating excellence both on and off the court.
Both Hadley and O’Brien received the coveted Marilyn Melhuish OAM Medal as Suncorp Super Netball Players of the Year for their exceptional performances and leadership throughout the 2025 season.
By Chris KARAS
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