Sally Fletcher with Rotary Club of Launceston Central president Stuart Cottrell and the $20,000 cheque recipient, CORES Australia executive officer Carolanne Walker. Picture: PAUL SCAMBLER
HUNDREDS of Tasmanian students and teachers will learn to recognise the signs of suicide and distress in others, thanks to a November fund-raising event.
The Sally's Ride Tamar Valley Cycle Challenge, a Rotary Club of Central Launceston event held on November 18, attracted 555 riders and raised $20,000.
Yesterday the club presented the proceeds to Carolanne Walker, executive officer of CORES Australia, which is a community-based program that teaches people how to intervene when they believe a person is at risk of suicide.
Ms Walker said the money would allow the organisation, established at Sheffield in 2003, to deliver a one-day training course to about 200 teachers and students in Tasmania.
``The money means we can go into schools and deliver the training earlier in people's lives - which is good, as they're more likely to come across a situation throughout their lives where those skills are needed,'' Ms Walker said.
If you need support or information, contact Samaritans 1300 364 566, Lifeline 131 114, Kids Helpline 1800 551 800, MensLine Australia 1300 789 978, or the StandBy Response Service 24-hour number on 0408 133 884.