What’s happening?
March is set to turn purple as Epilepsy Queensland launches its annual Make March Purple campaign.
A group of Queensland sporting greats have stepped up to raise awareness and funds by getting drenched in purple muck.
Leading the charge is rugby league icon and Patron of Epilepsy Queensland, Wally Lewis. He is joined by former Queensland Origin and Australia NRL representative Dallas Johnson, Breanna Koenen, Brisbane Broncos premiership winner Darius Boyd and former Brisbane Lions player and media personality Richard Champion.
The campaign aims to bring epilepsy out of the shadows and spark conversations across the state.
Why it matters
Almost 20 years after experiencing an on-air seizure, Wally Lewis continues to speak openly about his diagnosis.
He said, “I was afraid and ashamed for a long time, and I don’t want anyone else to experience that. Epilepsy is just a medical condition – it shouldn’t define us or prevent anyone from chasing their goals.
“The more we talk about epilepsy, the more understanding we build, and the better life gets for the people and families affected.”
Epilepsy Queensland says the campaign is about changing attitudes and improving support for families across the state.
“Epilepsy really mucks up lives, but you don’t have to go it alone, and with the right support life can get better,” said Tamara Ridley, Epilepsy Queensland’s Head of Commercial and Engagement.
“This March, we’re asking the Queensland community to learn what epilepsy is and how it affects people – because its impact extends far beyond the seizures themselves. Get mucked, fundraise your way, or donate and help us change the lives of the 1 in 25 Australians diagnosed in their lifetime.”
By the numbers
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50,000 Queenslanders are currently navigating the challenges of epilepsy, highlighting the scale of support needed across the state.
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1 in 25 Australians will be diagnosed with epilepsy in their lifetime, showing how common the condition is nationally.
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Almost 20 years have passed since Wally Lewis experienced his on-air seizure, a moment that brought epilepsy into the public spotlight.
Zoom in
For Wally Lewis, the campaign is deeply personal. His public seizure almost two decades ago forced him to reveal his condition. That moment shifted public awareness and opened space for honest conversations about epilepsy.
By stepping into the purple muck, he and other sporting leaders are sending a clear message. No one should feel ashamed of a medical condition.
Zoom out
Make March Purple is part of a broader push to increase awareness, reduce stigma and secure vital funding for services. Epilepsy Queensland provides support to individuals and families, helping them manage a condition that affects daily life far beyond seizures.
With high-profile athletes lending their voices, the campaign reaches new audiences and strengthens community understanding.
Local impact
For thousands of Queensland families, epilepsy can affect education, employment and mental health. Increased awareness can lead to better support at school, in workplaces and across community settings.
Funds raised during March help deliver practical services and guidance across Queensland.
What to look for next?
Community members are encouraged to get involved this March by learning more, getting mucked, fundraising or donating.
