The sky over Lions Park in West Dubbo was filled with green and purple balloons on Saturday as loved ones remembered those they had lost to suicide.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The releasing of the balloons was part of the NALAG Centre for Loss and Grief's third annual Walk Towards Hope that promotes awareness of suicide prevention, remembers those who have died and shines a light on the issue of suicide in Dubbo.
More than 100 people took part in the walk across the LH Ford Bridge and the following remembering ceremony.
NALAG Manager Trudy Hanson said the Walk was organised after she noticed the high number of clients who had been bereaved by suicide.
"We saw a need in the community and wanted to do something positive because we realised suicide is a big thing.
"It takes a lot of courage to come here and get a T-Shirt and walk across the bridge," she said.
Ms Hanson said every 40 seconds someone dies from suicide across the world and in Australia there are more than 2000 people who have been reported as having committed suicide.
She said suicide is responsible for more deaths in Australia than motor vehicle accidents.
NALAG's Suicide Network Co-ordinator Ann-Maree Hartley said the Walk provides a sense of connection for those in the community.
"Rural rates haven't declined over the years yet people still feel alone so what we're trying to do is show them they're never alone," she said.
Dr Hartley said there is also a stigma around suicide that often prevents people from speaking about it.
During the Remembrance Ceremony, those in attendance wished for strength and peace, the gift of consolation, understanding acceptance and support and new hope and comfort.