Local ‘Shine The Light’ Event Ahead Of World Suicide Prevention Day

There was a great turnout at Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network’s (WSPN) ‘Shine The Light’ event which took place at Fairy Tree Park on the Airlie Beach Foreshore last week.

WSPN has illuminated the two iconic fig trees on the Foreshore, hoping to raise awareness for World Suicide Prevention Day, to start conversations and encourage anyone affected by mental health stuggles to speak up and reach out for assistance.

As trees around Australia are being painted blue to raise awareness for mental health, here in Airlie Beach WSPN has placed two solar panelled lights shining blue light onto the fig trees. WSPN hope to have similar projects in Proserpine, Bowen and Collinsville as soon as possible.

WSPN President Matt Stokes said the lights illuminated onto the fig trees raise much-needed awareness.

“People need to know they're not alone - we all at some point go through it and those thoughts in our head that swirl usually get bigger when we are not talking to someone,” said Matt.

To help locals take a moment to sit and gather their thoughts, WSPN has repurposed the bench seat near the fig trees to create a place of contemplation. A plaque with the inspiring phrase – “We all have the power to light up the darkness and spread love and hope to those who require it” – has been placed near the location. It is hoped this space will become a safe and quiet place to think and also connect.

“You can scan the QR code on the plaque and a whole bunch of resources come up for that person, depending on what they're facing at that time,” said Matt.

“So, if you don't know where to go, we want everyone to know that this is the spot where you can make a link, and if you need to meet someone, it's a good safe place to do it.”

WSPN’s mission is to end the stigma about mental health and Matt says the worst thing to do is to say nothing.

“We all choose to say nothing and pretend it doesn't happen, whereas we all need to be encouraged to speak and talk to people,” said Matt

“If you are someone who's struggling to put your hand up and talk that's the thing we are trying to get broken down.

“Mental health is not exclusive to any age, demographic or person. You might be at the lowest of the low or the highest of the high, we're all very much exposed to mental health problems.”

Upcoming Events

Bowen Memorial Service
WHEN: Sunday 8 September at 8.30am
WHERE: Kelva Espresso & Health Food Bar – 33 Murroona Street
WHAT: An opportunity to reflect with a walk along the beach followed by casting of sunflowers, live music, stories of lived experiences and a message of hope,

World Suicide Prevention Day BBQ Breakfast
WHEN: Tuesday 10 September – 7am-10.30am
WHERE: Bowen Town Square Herbert Street
WHAT: Tea, coffee and conversations

World Suicide Prevention Day Memorial Service
WHEN: Tuesday 10th September
WHERE: Proserpine at Pioneer Park from 3pm
WHAT: Free sausage sizzle, food and conversations. Memorial Flower Ceremony at 5pm.

WSPN Committee - Matt Stokes, Mel Turner, Di Fleetwood and Rob Murphy
WSPN Committee and Councillor Clay Bauman and Mayor Ry Collins
Scan this QR code for help via WSPN website

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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