It was early 2019 when his younger brother Chris took his own life, the then 23-year-old remembered as someone who had a kind heart, a fierce competitive streak on the footy field and a passion for coffee.

In the two years since that day, Mr Rothnie has done his best to advocate for mental health and he'll continue to do that this September.

The Black Dog Institute's Mullets For Mental Health encourages people to grow a mullet for the month of September, with the obvious goal to spark conversation on the issue but also to raise much-needed funds for mental health research.

Suicide is the leading cause of death among Australians aged 15 to 44, and roughly 50 per cent of people reporting symptoms of mental illness don't seek help, the Black Dog Institute says.

"It changed my life perspective on the situation," Mr Rothnie said looking back at 2019.

"If I can spread awareness and save a life or two then I've done my part.

"The institute raises money for programs for people going through a rough time and, especially now, going through COVID, times are tough and people might need this more than ever.

"It's a great initiative to get on board and raise some awareness about."

Mr Rothnie said Paul McDonald from the Orange Tigers brought the initiative to his attention last month, and he thought he'd jump at the chance to embrace the often maligned hair-style.

And, given barber shops across Orange are currently closed due to the lockdown across NSW it's likely his mullet will be particularly outrageous.

"It's pretty out of sorts at the moment. I'm glad I started early," the 27-year-old laughed.

"How good's a home job ... and it's free too. Hopefully I can get it tidied up at some point."

Member for Orange Phil Donato is also a passionate advocate for mental health awareness and is backing the initiative.

Mr Rothnie said he'd spoken to the Orange MP about the project and was keen to join forces to help promote the issue across the region.

However, COVID has put an end to gatherings and events that can help raise funds for the institute.

"We can't do a lot at the moment, but if we can raise some awareness then we're on the right track," Mr Rothnie said

To help Mr Rothnie raise money, head to his Facebook page and donate to the cause.

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