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Donate nowheadspace Wollongong’s Youth Reference Group (YRG) have this week announced the return of ‘Out of the Shadows, Into the Light’, an annual event to raise awareness and encourage conversations about suicide prevention in our community.
Community Engagement Officer at headspace Wollongong, Jet Hunt says the event will take place on September 15 at Wollongong’s North Beach:
“Suicide is the leading cause of death for Australians under 44, and accounts for one if four deaths of young people aged 15-24.”
“Given the enormous impact of suicide on our community here in Wollongong, we are so proud to support the work of our wonderful young volunteers, who have this year taken the reins in organising this event,” added Jet.
The YRG have a variety of experiences with mental health variation and believe the community need to support each other, and have the conversations surrounding these topics:
“I want the community to be able to talk about these things… We all need to support each other.” – Hannah, long-term YRG member.
“Mental health is just like physical health – you have to take care of it.” - Tara, aged 19.
“Mental health and mental health variations are nothing to be ashamed of.” - Evie, event co-organiser.
The walk begins at 5.15pm (for a 5.30pm start) at North Wollongong Beach on Friday the 15th of September. Walkers will meet for a short reflection and opening words, before walking along Cliff Road towards the lighthouse at Wollongong Harbour and back. Entertainment will be provided by local musician Joshua Natoli.
Further information can be found on Facebook by searching for: ‘Out of the Shadows, Into the Light Wollongong.’
For media enquiries contact Jet Hunt, Community Engagement Officer, on 4220 7660 or jhunt@gph.org.au