Shellharbour City Council is encouraging the community to ask family, friends and colleagues R U OK? on Thursday 10 September.

Dressed in yellow, Shellharbour City Council Mayor Marianne Saliba will join staff for a COVID-safe 1km walk around the City Centre in support of the annual suicide prevention event.

Mayor Saliba will cut a yellow ribbon to launch R U OK? Day 2020 in the Civic Square at 10am.

The walk will begin soon after, starting at the Shellharbour Civic Centre forecourt. Social distancing will be observed.

National suicide prevention charity R U OK? aims to inspire and empower meaningful connections and support anyone who is struggling.

Shellharbour Mayor Marianne Saliba said 2020 had been a particularly challenging year for everyone and that it was more important than ever to stay connected and support each other.

“R U OK? Day is our opportunity to remind everyone that every day is the day to ask someone if they are ok, especially if you know they are struggling with life’s ups and downs,” Cr Saliba said.

“Suicide is a major public health concern and affects people of all ages and socio-economic groups. Indeed, several local young people have tragically taken their own lives recently, leaving many in our community reeling with grief and shock.

“I am so proud that Shellharbour City Council actively promotes and supports mental health and suicide prevention. It is vital to our health and wellbeing that we feel connected, especially in the current climate, which requires us to stay physically distanced.

“Through the simple act of starting and engaging in regular conversation we hold the power to significantly change another person’s life.”

If you or someone you know needs help, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or BeyondBlue on 1300 22 4636. If life is in danger, call 000.
- Lifeline: https://www.lifeline.org.au/
- Beyond Blue: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/
- Suicide Prevention Australia: https://www.suicidepreventionaust.org/
- Black Dog Institute: https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/

Media queries: Kelli Wells 0448 361 008.