WANGARATTA Area Suicide Prevention’s (WASP) annual Trivia Night Fundraiser, held at the Da Vinci Club last month raised almost $9000 for youth suicide prevention programs in the North East.
WASP chair Trevor Jenvey expressed delight at the total, accumulated through ticket sales, sponsorships, a live auction hosted by Peter Joyce, and a raffle.
The funds will be used to deliver workshops and programs addressing the high levels of psychological distress in the Wangaratta region.
"Wangaratta and surrounds experiences some of the highest psychological distress levels across Victoria and with suicide the leading cause of death among Australians aged 15-24years, our group is committed to try to reduce deaths in this age group within our local community," Mr Jenvey said.
Andrew Jobling, a renowned Australian mental health and wellbeing expert and former St Kilda AFL footballer, was one of the first speakers engaged by the group.
Latest Stories
Mr Jobling, author of eight books with over 30 years’ experience in education, speaking, leadership and wellbeing, attended the trivia night and addressed the attendees.
He shared his mission to "create a ripple effect of positive and permanent change in the world by helping people to make better choices and live a purposeful life of joyful longevity".
The trivia night, facilitated by Victorian company Quizzame, used wireless buzzers for a game-show atmosphere.
Local Wangaratta pharmacy, under the pseudonym and trivia team name ‘The Ovens Street Drug Lords’ won with a score of 40,896 points.
All 14 participating teams enjoyed the evening, which focused on mental health conversations, good food, laughter, friendly competition, and community connection.
The event’s success was thanks to the financial contribution of major sponsor Winsec Savings & Loans and the support of numerous local businesses, organisations, and artists who provided discounted services or donated prizes.
WASP holds monthly meetings on the third Wednesday of each month at 5.30pm at Pedal Slowly in Victoria Lane, Wangaratta.
A newly formed support group, Common Ground, for those with lived experience, meets an hour prior to the WASP meetings, offering a safe space for mutual support, connection, and understanding.
For more information about WASP or Common Ground, contact Trevor Jenvey on 0458 695059 or visit www.waspwangaratta.com.au.
