On Saturday 2nd of September Aidan Brophy, General Manager of Victoria and Jarrad Wegener, Client Relationship Manager participated in the Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb at Crown Metropol in efforts to “Step up to fight Depression, PTSD and Suicide”.

 The stair climb was completed by over 650 firefighters from Melbourne Fire Brigade, Country Fire Authority and other state fire services. 

 This year, the Firefighter's Charity Fund raised $500,000 from the event with all proceeds going to Lifeline and the Black Dog Institute to improve support services, fund research, remove stigmas and raise awareness of Mental health issues like depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and suicide, especially for those within the Emergency Service and Defence communities.

 Jarrad and Aidan completed the 28 floor stair climb wearing the complete firefighter outfit (25kgs of Turnout Gear and a Breathing Apparatus!).

  Aidan and Jarrad both spoke of their support of the initiative.

 “At GB we care for the community so being able to participate in an event and show support of such worthy cause was an honor” said Aidan

 “Those who work in emergency services know the challenges, risks and the toll the role can take on their mental health so it is important that as a community we show support for and do what we can do step up and fight mental health and conditions such as Depression, PTSD and suicide” said Jarrad.

 Below is a photo of a large memorial (10m x 10m) that was displayed in the centre. It lists the names of all fallen firefighters from Melbourne Fire Brigade, Country Fire Authority and also those that lost their lives in the 9/11 attack.  It will take pride of place in their training centre in Craigieburn.

 3 million Australians are living with depression and anxiety

1 in 4 Australians will suffer from a mental illness in their lifetime

Suicide is the leading cause of death for Australians aged between 15 and 44

3,000 Australians die by suicide every year, an average of eight people every day.

10% of our Emergency Services suffer from PTSD

41 returned Australian Diggers have died by their own hand on home soil, which is more than we lost on the battlefield during 14 years of war in Afghanistan

 You can make a donation to the Firefighter’s Charity Fund here. Every cent you donate goes directly towards the fight against depression, PTSD and suicide.