AN initiative aimed at preventing youth suicide and improving mental health in Macedon Ranges has won a national award.
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Live4Life was named the winner of the community development (organisation) category of the LiFE Awards at the National Suicide Prevention Conference in Brisbane last week.
The Macedon Ranges Shire Council initiative was established in 2010 in response to youth suicide, mental ill health and distress.
More than 5000 students and 600 adults have since participated in training, concerning youth mental health first aid, building resilience in communities and actively promoting rural youth mental health.
Secondary schools and key community agencies partnered with the council to deliver the program.
Macedon Ranges youth development coordinator Pauline Neil said it was the first time a Victorian council had won the award.
However, mayor Jennifer Anderson said it wasn’t the first time Live4Life had been recognised for its commitment to improving youth mental health.
“This award is a great achievement that builds on the program’s ground breaking work,” she said.
LiFE Awards Judging Committee Chair and Suicide Prevention Australia Board Director Matthew Tukaki said the committee was overwhelmed with the number of quality nominations showcasing the “exciting, innovative and diverse” range of programs being undertaken within the field.
"The nominees ranged from mainstream programs to local grass roots organisations and dedicated individuals,” he said.
“The Awards celebrate the commitment and energy of the nominees and their vital contribution to the reduction of suicide within our communities."
