Spirit DJ not too yellow to back Beyondblue

Spirit Radio 1026 Hedland announcer David Eckhart looked a little out of place at the North Pilbara Football League Hedland derby last month, donning West Coast Eagles colours rather reluctantly after losing a bet on air last month.

When Collingwood lost to the Eagles in round 6 of the AFL, Spirit Radio Mornings announcer Todd Gray decided Eckhart’s punishment would be to wear Eagles colours with his beloved Collingwood jersey at the local derby.

It was a hard pill to swallow for the avid Magpie supporter, but Eckhart carried out his penance in good spirits and used the lost bet as an opportunity to raise funds for a cause close to his heart.

“Men’s mental health is a big issue up in the North West and I wanted to use this opportunity to raise some awareness,” he said.

“Beyondblue do so much good work in our community, so they were the first charity that came to mind to support.

“I went through the crowd at the league and reserve games and had filled three tins full of coins and notes before the end of the night.”

Eckhart thanked the Hedland football community for their generosity, after raising more than $500 at the derby game.

“Thanks to the North Pilbara Football League, Port Hedland Rovers Football Club and South Hedland Swans Football Club, who all gave their blessing to fundraise at the derby match,” he said.