By Mitchell Clarke
A group of Pakenham firefighters have concluded their noble quest to raise much needed funds and awareness for mental health.
With the Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb – which was set to take place on 12 September – called off, the five firefighters instead embraced a virtual version of the popular fundraising challenge.
Kicking off on RUOK Day on 10 September and finishing up on World Mental Health Day on 10 October, 1st Lieutenant Chris Poulton joined firefighters Brayden Carr, Jarod Mann, Adrian Rowe and Russell Cotterell in taking up the challenge.
“We are acutely aware that mental health is the underlying crisis of Covid-19, so we virtually took the challenge to collectively climb a million steps for mental health,” Mr Poulton said.
Almost $9500 was raised by the group, with the Pakenham brigade sitting second on the station leader board.
Mr Poulton said he was “stoked” to have helped raise such an impressive figure during a disrupted year.
“This year was different, not only due to Covid but because this is the first time we at Pakenham have had a team,” he added.
“It’s been great to have a team this year and to be in the top leaders’ board, finishing up only $104 shy of the top.
“Starting on R U OK DAY and finishing on World Mental Health day was just so fitting for the cause.”
A whopping 4,473,484 steps were climbed this year and a collective $213,604 was raised for Lifeline, the Black Dog Institute and the 000 Foundation.
Prior to the event, CFA Acting Chief Officer Garry Cook said it was “fantastic” to see mental health remain a hot topic for firefighters.
“This year has been incredibly tough on the mental health of the entire community, including emergency services personnel,” Mr Cook said.
“The Stair Climb provides friendly competition, great exercise and raises vital funds to support mental health services.”
World Mental Health Day is observed on 10 October every year, with the overall objective to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and mobilise efforts in support of mental health.
The donations page will remain open until the end of October. To donate: https://www.firefighterclimb.org.au/station/cfa/pakenham/.
