Community activism awarded

ALANNAH McGregor has been named The Fred Hollows Foundation’s first ever Humanitarian of the Year.

The vice-president and secretary of the Suicide Prevention Awareness Network of Central Victoria was presented the accolade after winning a public vote against seven other finalists.

“That actually blew me away because they told me that it was a very high percentage of votes,” she said.

“I did know that the SPAN committee had utilised their friendship groups and such, but I didn’t think I’d get anywhere near as many votes as I got. It was really humbling.

“I didn’t really expect to win. I was pretty excited, honoured, humbled and then underneath there was that sadness because of why I do it.”

Ms McGregor lost her son, Stuart, and daughter, Angela, 19 years ago to suicide and has since made it her mission to break its stigma and open up genuine community conversation.

“In the early years I know that it was really difficult for my daughter, Stacey, for me to be public and talking about it because it brought it all up for her,” Ms McGregor said.

“But she always said, ‘I don’t want you to stop doing it’.

“To bring it up, it gives you an opportunity to talk about it.”

The award is named after ophthalmologist Fred Hollows who worked in developing countries on restoring eyesight to thousands of people with preventable and treatable vision loss and impairment.

While Ms McGregor said she didn’t think of herself as a humanitarian, the foundation’s founding director, Fred’s wife, Gabi Hollows said the award was about acknowledging those making a big difference in the world around them.

“More than ever, the past year has shown us the importance of people in their communities supporting each other,” she said.

“That’s everyday humanitarianism, something that Fred lived and breathed.”

Ms McGregor said she will continue to spread SPAN’s core message that “tough times pass”.

“Always be aware that there is somebody who will listen and there is something you can do,” she said.

If you need mental health support, visit beyondblue.org.au or call their 24/7 hotline on 1300 22 4636. You can also visit lifeline.org.au or call them on 13 11 14 and help for young people is available at kidshelpline.com.au or by calling them on 1800 55 1800.