Local health promotion charity Live4Life has claimed the Communities in Action award at the National LiFE Awards hosted by Suicide Prevention Australia.
Live4Life was presented the award at on May 1, recognising the critical role that individuals and organisations play in identifying and taking action in suicide prevention.
The award acknowledges that communities working together are at the heart of suicide prevention strategies.
Live4Life chief executive Bernard Galbally and community engagement manager Cathryn Walder accepted award and acknowledged the other finalists and the work they are doing.
Mr Galbally said Live4Life is honoured to be considered alongside these extraordinary organisations.
“I am not sure if you are aware of the impact just being nominated for this award has in our communities… It is huge,” he said.
“Everyone walks that little bit taller. It strengthens everyone’s commitment to this work.”
Mr Galbally emphasised that Live4Life is led by young people and pointed to Year 9 and 10 students who put their hand up to be Mental Health Ambassadors in their communities.
“This award belongs to all of these young people,” he said. “We accept this award proudly on their behalf.”
Suicide Prevention Australia chief executive Nieves Murray said the awards celebrate and amplify initiatives that are breaking new ground.
“[This is] so others can learn and embed best-practice suicide prevention solutions across their communities,” he said.
“As we acknowledge the inspiring contributions of our LiFE Award recipients, we are reminded that change is possible and that there is always hope and help available.”
Since its inception in the Macedon Ranges, Live4Life has grown year on year and is now in 13 Victorian rural communities and one Tasmania community, with a waitlist of more than 20 local government areas.
