Cape Walk for Life: Hundreds brave wet weather to raise awareness for mental health and suicide prevention

In a bid to shine a light on suicide awareness and the importance of mental health, residents across the Capes have braved the wet weather to take part in a community walk. The second annual Cape Walk for Life took place last Sunday with hundreds walking from Naturaliste Lighthouse and raising money for crucial organisations. The walk was co-ordinated by suicide awareness campaigner Jon Eddy after the topic became personal for him when his 20-year-old son Alex took his own life in 2019. Mr Eddy said he started the Cape Walk for Life as a response to several suicides that happened in 2021 and did not want to wait until the Raising the Vibe music festival, traditionally held in October, to raise awareness. “I felt an overwhelming sense of urgency to bring our community together,” he said, “I wanted to unite us in the face of this impossible grief. “It proved so popular and many asked if we would hold it again so we did.” Mr Eddy said he recognised many in the crowd of participants that had been personally affected and was moved to see the community unite to fight suicide and raise awareness. “It is incredibly moving,” he said. “I really want everyone affected by suicide in any way, shape or form to know that they are not alone and we as a community are working hard to fight this preventable problem.” Before participants set off on the walk, Mr Eddy, Busselton Mayor Grant Henley and Vasse MLA Libby Mettam all gave speeches highlighting the importance of suicide awareness and prevention, while Ernie Hill gave a “heartwarming” acknowledgement of country. The walk started from the lighthouse, participants had the option of using sealed and wheelchair-friendly paths to explore the Cape for up to 6km in a big group to show support for those suffering mental stress as well as the region’s demand for improved services. Proceeds from the day went to Lifeline WA, Busselton’s Man Walk and the Blue Tree Project, which also has a presence in the region. Lifeline 13 11 14