o Counsellor Sandy Gordon from Trangie.
The untimely death of a staff member has prompted Narromine Shire Council to hold a luncheon for staff and partners to raise awareness of the presence of organisations like beyondBlue, the local mental health counselling service and Councils Employee Assistance Program.
Council’s facilities were closed for two hours, between 12pm and 2pm to allow all staff to attend the function, held at the depot.
Staff members prepared the food and paid a $10 fee for lunch, as well as buying raffle tickets for donated prizes.
In excess of $1600 was raised for beyondBlue.
Sandy Gordon, counsellor from Trangie, spoke on the signs of depression and anxiety and what to do if you were concerned that a work colleague or loved one may be suffering from the illness.
Sandy Sallmayer, from Centacare’s Financial Counselling Service, was also present and highlighted their services provided for the community.
General manager, Greg Lamont, said it was important that staff are supported at this sad time and are given the information about the services available to assist those who suffer with depression or mental illness.
“It is something which can affect anyone at any time in their lives and we need to be aware that help is there.’’ More information on the beyondBlue organisation and the services it offers is available at www.beyondblue.org.au or through your local medical practitioner.