HERVEY Bay is gearing up for two powerful community events this September, inviting locals to walk for awareness, support, and hope.
From confronting the impact of suicide to shining a light on dementia, the Hervey Bay community will come together for initiatives that matter deeply to families across the region.
Out of the Shadows Walk – Bringing Hope to Mental Health
On Wednesday, 10 September, Lifeline Hervey Bay will lead the Out of the Shadows Walk for World Suicide Prevention Day.
This poignant event invites the community to walk 9 kilometres along the Fraser Coast to honour the nine Australians who tragically lose their lives to suicide every day.
More than a physical journey, the walk symbolises hope, awareness, and connection.
Starting with a reflective sunrise stroll at Urangan Pier and a gathering at The Brolga Theatre, participants can share stories, support one another, and collectively break the stigma surrounding suicide.
“Suicide does not discriminate — it can affect anybody, at any time,” says Sally Holstein from Lifeline Hervey Bay.
“Behind every statistic is a person, and many loved ones are left learning to navigate life without them. When we talk openly and without judgement about mental health and suicide, it creates a sense of belonging and connection that can save lives.”
Funds raised support Lifeline’s 24/7 crisis services, including life-saving phone calls, crisis text support, and virtual counselling sessions tailored to individual needs.
Every dollar raised helps Lifeline provide crucial, round-the-clock support through phone, text, and online counselling—offering hope and connection when it’s needed most.
Dementia Walk Hervey Bay – Stepping Up for Awareness
Following shortly after, Torbay Lifestyles & Care is proudly championing Dementia Action Week (15–21 September) with the Dementia Walk Hervey Bay on Sunday, 21 September.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Pier Park, Urangan, the walk offers participants the choice of a relaxed 2km stroll along the iconic Urangan Pier or a scenic 5km route along the Esplanade.
Walkers can join the ‘Early Birds’ at 8:00 AM or the ‘Mid Morning Strollers’ at 10:00 AM, or set off individually anytime between 7:00 AM and noon.
Building on the success of last year’s inaugural walk—which raised nearly $10,000—Torbay Lifestyles & Care hopes to exceed that milestone to support Dementia Australia.
Funds raised will directly contribute to research, advocacy, and vital services for those living with dementia and their families.
“Dementia is a cause close to the hearts of our 200 staff and volunteers. We see firsthand the impact it has on residents and their families. Supporting Dementia Australia allows us to raise awareness and show our commitment to compassionate care,” says Carrie Chappell, Chief Executive Officer of Torbay Lifestyles & Care.
Dementia affects more than 420,000 Australians, making it the leading cause of death for women and the second-leading cause overall.
While there is no cure, treatments and support help manage symptoms, enabling many to continue active, fulfilling lives within their communities.
In Hervey Bay, where a large older population lives, the condition touches countless families, making local involvement in the walk especially meaningful.
Now in its second year, the Dementia Walk Hervey Bay is a chance for the community to unite, show support, and raise essential funds for research, advocacy, and services.
Join the Movement
Both events highlight the power of community in Hervey Bay to raise awareness, provide support, and create meaningful change.
Whether walking 9km to honour lives affected by suicide or stepping along the pier for dementia, every participant makes a difference.
For those interested in joining the Dementia Walk Hervey Bay, registration is open at memorywalk.com.au/events/dementia-walk.
To RSVP for the Out of the Shadows Walk, visit Lifeline Hervey Bay’s Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/lifelineqld
In a region where connection, care, and community matter, September’s walks are more than events—they are a chance to unite, reflect, and take action for causes that touch so many lives. Step up, walk together, and be part of Hervey Bay’s journey toward hope and awareness.
