Personal stories and those of others helped through Lifeline were shared by dynamic presenter Kellie Dunn. She was supported by other Lifeline counsellors and Travis Dillon (Ruralco CEO) who leads by example in support of Lifeline.

The presentation was not merely about what Lifeline can offer but how we as individuals can play a supportive role in the lives of our family, friends and neighbours. Through the concept of the mental-health bucket, we learnt various stresses and strains that can lead to this bucket overflowing.

This may result in depression and anxiety or diagnosed psychotic illnesses such as schizophrenia, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder.

The important lesson is to avoid letting the bucket overflow. It needs holes to drain before the stresses push the contents over the rim.

These ‘holes’ may be friends, therapy, chocolate, yoga, pets, eating well, exercise and – where necessary – the constantly improving array of medications to restore possible chemical imbalances.

This Lifeline presentation provided valuable insights into our own well-being and gave us tools to help others.

Many thanks to Gunning Ag and Water Solutions for this opportunity to learn from those at the front line of crisis support.

The Extraordinary Council Meeting in Gunning Shire chambers at 6pm on April 10 will consider objecting to AGL’s request for a two-year extension about a gas-fired power station at Dalton. The impact of stress over AGL’s intentions must be considered in overall community wellbeing.

The Gunning skateboarding workshop was enjoyed by about 20 youngsters. “I had lots of fun” one participant said.

The Totem Skateboard team often leave the Hume Highway to skate here – they complimented the layout that had design input from young district skateboarders.