WHAT a fantastic result, over $10,000 dollars has been raised in last weekend’s charity bowls event for beyondblue and Port Stephens Suicide Prevention.

Bernie Fitzsimmons, President of Port Stephens Suicide Prevention said, “This is an incredible success, this amount of money, can now be used to train 100 people to support those at risk of suicide.”

“We use trained trainers from organisations such as Lifeline to share their knowledge at a two day course to assist members of the public to recognise the signs, intervene and put in place an action plan to support the person who is at risk of suicide.”

Brett, Jacqui and Millar Gainsford have worked tirelessly to raise awareness and funds for this campaign.

According to Lifeline’s data, there are more than eight deaths per day in Australia due to suicide.

The suicide rate amongst Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples is more than double the national rate.

In 2015, suicide accounted for 5.2% of all Indigenous deaths compared to 1.8% for non-Indigenous people.

Bernie told News Of The Area, “There were around 200 people in attendance, fortunately the clouds parted and we were able to use the three greens which we had booked in anticipation of this event.”

“The staff at Nelson Bay Bowling Club were outstanding, included with the entry fee of $20 was a game of bowls, then an enjoyable meal and also a raffle draw.”

Bernie, with heartfelt thanks, would like to appreciate those who gave donations for the raffle prizes, the staff at the bowling club and, of course, those who attended on the day.

The Port Stephens community spirit is so strong, if people are in need the community join together and create outstanding results.

Well done Port Stephens.

 

By Mandy ELLIS