Standing up, speaking out and showing up when it comes to looking out for the mental health of yourself and others was the message shared at Neffy’s Walk at the weekend.
On Saturday, November 18, more than 50 people showed up at Victoria Park Lake in Shepparton in the late afternoon to remember those lost to suicide, raise funds for crisis support workers and promote mental health awareness.
To kick off the event, attendees heard various community members and leaders speak out about their mental health journeys or those of their family members, with some speaking on the loss of their loved ones to suicide.
The event was organised by Steve ‘Neffy’ Neff, who has worked in crisis support for years through Lifeline.
BC Candles was also at the event, handing out memorial candles for attendees to use on the walk.
BC Candles was started by Shepparton woman Cheryl Keep following the death of her son Blake, who passed away from suicide in 2021.
The business often donates percentages of profits to the Black Dog Institute, so for November, $8 from $10 wax melts known as ‘Blake’s Purple Hearts’ will go to Mr Neff’s support group, Neffy’s We Listen.
To support them and Neffy’s We Listen, purchase a wax melt from BC Candles via the Facebook page
If you or anyone you know requires crisis support, contact Accessline on 1800 800 944, Lifeline Australia on 131 114, BeyondBlue on 1300 224 636 or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.