The Wagga residents has engaged in some of the physically toughest sports in the country but inside he was struggling emotionally.

“I’m someone on the outside who appears to be a functioning, highly decorated sports person but people didn’t know that I had my battles until I raised it,” he said.

He is hosting The Wagga Suicide Prevention, Awareness and Education 24-hour Treadmill Run with the aim of having someone running on the treadmill for the full 24 hours.

“There’s been a spike in suicides in the community of late,” he said.

“When people hear the word suicide they think of negative thoughts immediately.

“A lot of people know about the awareness campaign but we are looking at the next step – prevention.”

Mr Williams is still looking for participants and local businesses to donate raffle items.

The event will be held from 4.30pm August 14 to 4.30pm August 15 in the Sturt Mall car park.

“The event is all about encouragement, that mental illness isn’t that bad to talk about,” he said.

Participants pay $35 and receive a T-shirt to run in.

Money also goes towards Mr Williams’s new charity, which is yet unnamed, which will raise money to assist families affected by suicide.

Register your interest with Mr Williams by emailing joewilliams.theenemywithin@gmail.com.

If you or someone you know needs help, call:

Lifeline – 13 11 14

Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467

Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800

MensLine Australia – 1300 78 99 78