Awareness campaign for mental health
In July, the Mount Isa Mines Copper Concentrator Department, in collaboration with Custom Steel Fab, launched an initiative to increase awareness and drive fundraising for the Mount Isa Suicide Prevention Network (MISPN).
MISPN is an essential organisation supporting the Mount Isa community. Its mission is to unite individuals with a shared commitment to reducing suicide by raising awareness, reducing stigma, encouraging help-seeking behaviours, and providing education and resources.
Ian Downes, Manager of the Copper Concentrator, shared that the department has suffered the loss of two colleagues over the past two years, underscoring the importance of creating safe spaces for open discussions on mental health.
“We aim to foster an environment where conversations about mental health are both encouraged and supported. Through this, we hope to make a meaningful impact in suicide prevention,” Ian said.
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Sonia Coleman, Coordinator Support, Copper Concentrator supporting fundraising initiatives for Mount Isa Suicide Prevention Network.
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Raising awareness for the Mount Isa Suicide Prevention Network.
“Our focus is not only on raising funds but also on sharing personal stories, educating others about mental health, and ensuring that support options are widely known.”
Copper Concentrator employees have also actively participated in the Mount Isa community, including assisting with the ‘Out of the Shadows’ Walk on September 10.
Travis McElligott of Custom Steel Fab, who lost an employee to suicide a year ago, has taken on the personal challenge of running Telstra Hill for a continuous 24-hour period in November to show his commitment to the cause.
“Losing someone to suicide has a profound impact on many lives, directly and indirectly,” Travis said.
"By sharing knowledge, we’re taking steps toward dismantling societal perceptions, reducing the stigma surrounding suicide, and initiating important conversations on mental health within our communities, workplaces, and homes."
Desley Ahwing, Mount Isa Suicide Prevention Network Secretary with Alison Godfrey, Mount Isa Mines Copper Concentrator Administration Assistant with fundraising boxes to support suicide prevention.
Help is available and knowing where to find it is key to taking the first step to self-help. Glencore employees can access 24/7 crisis and emergency support through our Employee Assistance Program provider, Assure, by calling 1800 808 374 or visiting assureprograms.com.au. Other support services include Lifeline Australia – 13 11 14 or StandBy (Qld) – 1300 727 247 (providing support after suicide) and the MISPN.
The Copper Concentrator Department and Custom Steel Fab continue their efforts to raise $50,000 for MISPN. Head to their GoFundMe page to find out more or to donate. All proceeds go directly to the MISPN.