Jessica Micallef
Gisborne CFA members are stepping up for mental health.
Volunteer firefighter Di Dale is among five members who are taking part in the Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb – an annual charity event that brings together firefighters and emergency services members to raise money for mental health charities.
Firefighters usually race up the stairs of the Crown Metropol Hotel while wearing 25 kilograms of equipment, but this year they are being encouraged to accumulate as many steps as they can by hiking in their local areas or walking up and down steps at home.
Ms Dale said raising mental health awareness was more important than ever.
“It is great to be part of a cohort of people that have a common doctrine of wanting to fundraise to support those agencies that support others,” she said.
“Especially this year with the challenging times that people have been faced with, like having to home school, experiencing a loss of employment or not been able to see their loved ones in their time of need, so I think this year has taken its toll on a lot of people.”
The annual event raises money for mental health charities including the 000 Foundation, Lifeline and the Black Dog Institute.
“We would like to raise a few thousand dollars,” Ms Dale said.
“You cannot put a price on mental health.
“For us to be doing this event, it really has reiterated the comradery in our brigade and how we can band together for a good cause.”
The Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb takes place until Saturday, October 10.
To donate: bit.ly/35FQuvy
