Across Australia, Lifeline receives thousands of calls for support daily but now the service is turning the tables and is ‘calling on’ the Newcastle and Lake Macquarie communities to walk on World Suicide Prevention Day.
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World Suicide Prevention Day activities will take place around the nation on Monday, September 10.
Lifeline Hunter Central Coast will be hosting a walk on Monday that offers an opportunity for people to openly discuss and reflect on suicide, focussing in particular on hope, recovery, reflection and prevention in the local community
Last year more than 700 people participated in the Newcastle to Merewether walk.
Lifeline Hunter Central Coast is hopeful the event will attract up to 1000 walkers this year.
“This year has seen more Australians seek help through Lifeline’s 13 11 14 crisis line and online services than ever before,” Lifeline’s general manager, Robert Sams, said.
“However, suicide remains the leading cause of death for people aged between 15 and 44 in this country, with eight Australians taking their own life every day.
“Together we need to take a stance and do our part to reduce these devastating statistics, with this walk important in raising awareness of this issue locally.”
The walk will begin at sunrise (approximately 5.30am) on September 10, starting at Dixon Park Surf Club.
Walkers will make their way to Merewether ocean baths then turn around and head back to Dixon Park Surf Club.
Walkers will have the opportunity to lay flowers in remembrance. A variety of vendors will be selling breakfast.
The walk is supported by Newcastle Coal Infrastructure Group who will be providing a barbecue breakfast.
Other supporters include Department of Health Primary Health Networks – Hunter, New England, Central Coast and Belflora who will provide single flowers for walkers.
- Lifeline 13 11 14
