The second annual March Across the Monash will take place on Saturday, September 9, with organisers keen for Benalla to support the initiative.
The event will coincide with the weekend of World Suicide Prevention Day.
Organised by the Benalla Suicide Prevention and Awareness Network (BSPAN), March Across the Monash aims to reduce stigma, encourage people to seek support, honour the memories of those lost to suicide, support those who have survived suicide attempts, and come together around those who bear the weight of grief.
BPSAN wants the community to unite and support those who have been touched by suicide.
The event will begin at 10.30am in the Benalla Botanical Gardens and will feature inspiring speakers. The march will start at 11.15am.
Following the march, the community is invited to enjoy a free sausage sizzle and some fun activities at Brick by Brick in Nunn St, thanks to sponsorship by Beatons Silk Cut Meats and Bertalli’s Bakery.
Brick by Brick founder Karina Walker said this year, several tragedies had shaken Benalla, and each of these events highlighted the importance of broader support networks as families and friends grieve.
“Grief is not just deeply personal, it is vital to have the support of the community during these times, and this is often denied to those who have lost a loved one to suicide” Ms Walker said.
“Brick by Brick is proud to co-sponsor this event once again after seeing the conversations and connections that occurred at the first March Across the Monash.”
Anita Carter said she attended the first event in 2022 to support one of BSPAN’s founding members and also because of her own experience with suicide.
“Losing my sibling as a teenager changed my life irrevocably,” Ms Carter said.
“As an adult, I might understand more about why, but it doesn’t take away the pain or reduce the stigma that still exists in the community.
“I want to see a world where we can have real, meaningful conversations about suicide.”
Find out more on Facebook @March Across the Monash.