Western region firefighters will go head-to-head with local football umpires to raise important funds for a mental health charity and help the community raise awareness about suicide.
Raising funds for beyondblue.
CFA is proud to be supporting the Western Region Football League Umpires vs Firefighters beyondblue Challenge.
While the WRDLU vs FF footy match has been a regular event for some years, 2018 marks the first year it will raise funds for beyondblue.
Volunteer and career CFA firefighters and MFB firefighters make up the team going up against the umpires of the Western Region.
CFA firefighter and match organiser Paul DiMartino said it was great to see the local community rallying for a good cause.
“We’ve been affected by suicide quite a bit recently; it always comes as a huge shock to the community and affects us in ways we don’t expect," Paul said.
“It’s not much but it feels good to turn this annual match into something more than just a game of footy. We’re doing it for the ones we’ve lost.”
Suicide is the leading cause of death for Australians between 15 and 44 years of age, with young Australians more likely to die from suicide than in a motor vehicle accident.
“Emergency service workers and volunteers face high rates of mental health problems because of the work we do. If this small event can help provide some support and raise much-needed funds, it’s worth doing,” Mark said.
The game will be played at Avalon Airport Oval from 10.30am on Sunday 23 September.
“Come on down, bring some mates and let’s raise funds for a great cause.”
The game coincides with the launch of CFA’s Wellbeing Support Line, which provides support to all CFA staff, volunteers and family. It joins our already established peer support, Member Assistance Program and chaplaincy services.
WHAT: WRDLU vs FF footy match raising funds for beyondblue
WHEN: Sunday 23 September 10:30am
WHERE Avalon Airport Oval (Chirnside Park)
COST: Donation $10 for adults $5 for Children
If you or anyone you know needs help, call CFA’s Wellbeing Support Line on 1800, 959 232, Lifeline on 13 11 14, Beyond Blue on 1300 22 46 36, Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800, MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978, Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467; or Headspace on 1800 650 890.