Tyler Richardson is best known as the lead vocalist in punk rock band Luca Brasi, or as a high school teacher to hundreds of pupils.
But now he has become Tasmania's first Lifeline ambassador and he's keen to get people talking about mental health.
"As a band and as an individual I've had a big passion for mental health and the benefits of trying to talk about it and get it out there in the open," Richardson told Lucie Cutting on ABC Radio Hobart.
He will be tasked with destigmatising suicide and mental health issues within the community and raising awareness of the support available.
"As someone from a smaller rural community, myself and my friendship circle have been through a lot of loss unfortunately," he said.
"We have a lot of experience with mental health issues and it's touched a lot of us.
The power of music
Lifeline Tasmania chief executive Debbie Evans said having an ambassador such as Richardson could inspire people who wouldn't ordinarily reach out for help and support to do just that.
"Tyler brings to the role such passion and enthusiasm," she said.
"But also, he has an ability to connect with young people, particularly men, who unfortunately do not always seek support in times of distress or crisis.
"Music has a unique power that creates connection and gives a voice to the tough subjects like suicide and mental ill-health."
She said the appointment was an important step for Lifeline to expand its reach.
Nationally, the organisation receives more than 1 million contacts every year, whether it be through telephone, text, or online crisis support services.
A full plate
Richardson is a new father, a school teacher at Taroona High School in Hobart, and also has band commitments.
Luca Brasi formed in Tasmania in 2009, and has had ARIA nominations, tracks in triple J's Hottest 100, and toured with some of Australia's biggest rock bands.
The band is set to release a new single, and Richardson is also working on a solo record.
"It just keeps happening," he said.
"We've had a break from playing shows but we will get started on that again soon.
Richardson said he was inspired by the work Lifeline volunteers did.
More than 300 people give their time to the organisation in Tasmania alone.
"I'm seeing people that really care about what they do and put themselves second or third or fourth to people they care for," he said.
"They don't just knock off and go home and finish for the day, they take this stuff home with them.
He said he wanted to get the Lifeline message out there.
"Whether you are going through some mental health issues yourself or trauma or you know someone who is but you don't know quite how to deal with those conversations or how to offer advice," he said.
"A service like this is so vital and important to communities and they never get the funding they deserve.
Lifeline counsellors are available 24/7 on 13 11 14 or online.
To celebrate 90 years of the ABC connecting communities, we've partnered with Volunteering Australia to encourage Australians to come together and make a pledge: 90 minutes of kindness in your community. Make the pledge and share your #ABC90for90 with your friends, family and colleagues.
