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General News

29 October, 2024

Live4Life marks year

Central Goldfields’ first ever Live4Life Crew hosted an end-of-year celebration at Highview College, marking the importance of youth mental health.

By Jonathan Peck

Throughout 2024, Life4Life’s first ever Central Goldfields Crew consisting of Highview College students Connor, Curtis, Josh and Ella have promoted youth mental health through various initiatives in the community. Now, they are hoping to pass the torch onto the next generation of advocates.
Throughout 2024, Life4Life’s first ever Central Goldfields Crew consisting of Highview College students Connor, Curtis, Josh and Ella have promoted youth mental health through various initiatives in the community. Now, they are hoping to pass the torch onto the next generation of advocates.

Partnering with 14 local government areas across Victoria and Tasmania, Live4Life has provided youth mental health education to over 230 students and 50 adults in the Central Goldfields.

A key component of the mental health promotion charity model, designed specifically for rural and regional communities, is The Crew, consisting of students who assist in promoting mental health in the community.

Highview College’s crew, made up of year nine students Connor, Curtis, Ella and Josh, have raised awareness for mental health with the ‘Listen Up, Stand Up’ campaign, organising R U OK? Day activities at Highview College and participating in last weekend’s YouthFest colour run event.

Crew member Ella said she is proud of what the group has been able to accomplish together.

“Most crews have over 12 people so with only four members, I think we have been able to achieve a lot of good things,” she said.

“It’s a good feeling being able to know that you are helping people including my fellow students.

“The highlight for me was definitely the Crew Camp in Tylden — we got to make some great friends, learn a lot in workshops and enjoy activities like the giant swing and flying fox.”

Live4Life CEO Bernard Galbally and Highview College principal Eryn O’Mahony (front) with Live4Life crew members Curtis, Josh, Ella and Connor.
Live4Life CEO Bernard Galbally and Highview College principal Eryn O'Mahony (front) with Live4Life crew members Curtis, Josh, Ella and Connor.

The celebrations also included a presentation from The Crew, encouraging year eight students to take their place in 2025.

According to crew member Curtis, raising mental health awareness among young people has been a rewarding challenge he hopes his fellow students consider.

“The experience has been fun, especially when we can spread the word of mental health in younger people,” he said.

“Before this, I wouldn’t do anything around public speaking at all, but ever since I started I’ve learned to be more confident.

“You never know when you need to help a friend in need [and] you never know if it could happen to yourself or people you care about.”

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