Mark MacManus

The Restoration Project is a Mental Health awareness and Drug and Alcohol Education and Prevention Service specialising in lived experience, keynote speaking, family support, rehabilitation referral, and intervention guidance. 

Mark Macmanus (founder) shares his personal harrowing story and path to recovery. Some of the topics covered include anxiety, self-esteem, depression, alcohol, narcotics, gambling, resilience, determination, and rehabilitation. 

Mark launched The Restoration Project to help educate people about mental health and the challenges of substance abuse and finding hope through adversity. 

“I suffered from poor mental health from an early age. I suffered anxiety, low self-esteem, and depression. At the time I did not understand what I was even struggling with. In my early 20s, I was binge drinking every weekend and started to experiment with illicit drugs. I become addicted and suffered for eight years. My life spiralled out of control and reached depths where I thought I would never return. However, I sought rehabilitation and set about on my recovery. My story is raw and powerful and breaks all the stigmas associated with mental health and addiction. I wish to deliver hope to families and people who are suffering. I wish to educate the youth of the dangers of alcohol and narcotics and the effect they can have on your life.” 

Mark is an established presenter and is sought after in the addiction and mental health space and has played a role in many people turning their lives around and living proof that nothing is impossible if you don’t give up. Mark works with multiple organisations including, ACSO, Latrobe Drug Action Team. (LDAT) Latrobe Youth Space, Coability, Maxima, Bakers Delight, and Wellington Local Drug Action Team.  

Mark is now 7 years clean and is the Interim General Manager of Operations of a local disability employment provider in Gippsland and runs his own successful business. Mark is living proof that rock bottom can become the solid foundation on which you can rebuild your life. 

The Restoration Project