Preventing suicide a shared path

FOR the first time since 2019, suicide prevention advocates and supporters met up to literally take their message to the streets of Bendigo.

The Suicide Prevention Awareness Network walk was held on Sunday, with hundreds of people coming together at the Dai Gum San Precinct, before walking through Rosalind Park and Hargreaves Mall.

Co-founder of SPAN Central Victoria, Allanah McGregor, said being in person was much better than the virtual walks that took place in 2020 and 2021.

“It’s really exciting for me and all of the committee, we’ve not seen each other face-to-face for two years,” she said.

“It’s been lovely to catch up and I’m hoping for a big crowd today to show their support for suicide prevention.

“People get a lot of a hug and, even though you’re still social distancing, it’s important to have that physical contact as well as the voice over the phone or over Zoom.”

Ms McGregor, whose advocacy work saw her named the Fred Hollows Humanitarian of the Year and City of Greater Bendigo Citizen of the year, said the walk is designed to encourage conversations around mental health and show support for people impacted by depression and suicide.

She said hundreds of people walking through the Bendigo CBD makes a statement that “suicide stops the traffic.”

As well as the walk, participants are invited to place a decorated butterfly on a giant net, in memory of lost loved ones.

Community spirit was on display throughout the morning, with volunteers assisting with the smooth running of the event.

“We’ve got people like Chris DeAraugo playing music who’s volunteered his time, we’ve got the Lions club volunteering, it’s such a community effort people put in to prevent suicide and get that word out there,” Ms McGregor said.