On that day marketing co-ordinator Lisa Willows visited the six retail shops of Lifeline Mid Coast from Kempsey through to Forster, with cupcakes and flowers for the volunteers in celebration of the anniversary.

“It is a very special moment as today marks the 30th anniversary of Lifeline Mid Coast serving your local community. Our passion to help people is sustained today, more than ever before,” Ms Willows said.

Lifeline Mid Coast was built on a commitment to reach out to those in crisis, whenever they need it and wherever they are, offering real support when difficulties seem overwhelming.

Since the centre was established in 1988, the Telephone Crisis Support team has answered more than 400,000 callers in crisis, trained over 1000 Telephone Crisis Supporters and facilitated more than 500 support and training groups.

Today the centre provides targeted services such as Support After Suicide groups for those bereaved by suicide, the Eclipse group and Australia first group for suicide survivors, as well as a range of community training opportunities that raise awareness in suicide prevention, domestic violence and mental health.

Sadly, suicide remains a leading cause of death for Australians aged between 15 and 44 and Lifeline understands that a person can experience crisis for many reasons and research into suicide suggests that while there are reasons for crisis, two perceptions stand out as being leading factors in suicide; a sense of isolation and feelings of hopelessness.

Lifeline Mid Coast’s approach to suicide is based on the belief that it is possible to either intervene or interfere in a suicide crisis through simple actions such as connecting with their callers and offering appropriate support. It is this simple approach and our willingness to listen that saves lives.

Catherine Vaara, CEO said she would like to acknowledge the retail arm of the operation, “being the sole reason that we are able to continue our life saving service.”

Catherine thanked the 300 plus volunteers of Lifeline Mid Coast, who are the “lifeblood of our service.”

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