Volunteering for those in need

Lifeline Direct Ltd
Vivacious. Courageous. Determined.

Thanks to Lyndsay Walker, thousands of people know where to turn for help when they are feeling down.

Former professional cricketer Lyndsay is a Lifeline volunteer. Last year, he helped raise $50,000 for the free counselling service by participating in the Newy100, a 100km run around Newcastle.

In the lead up to the event, Lyndsay gave his time for media interviews, making thousands of people aware of the crisis support and suicide prevention that Lifeline offers.

“My advocacy with Lifeline has touched my passion for a stronger, mentally healthy community,” says Lyndsay.

He continues to build on his work with Lifeline and wants to make next year’s Newy100 bigger than ever.

In February, Lyndsay took part in a stair challenge, climbing more than 100,400 steps in 24 hours.

Conquering step after step was his way of showing people the challenges others face every day just to keep going through life.

Lyndsay has also taken the time to undertake training with Lifeline and is now a qualified crisis support lifeline volunteer manning the phones for those experiencing sadness, loneliness or crisis.

He is a prolific volunteer and has spent many hours helping Australian Defence Force veterans and the homeless and also coaches school children with disabilities.

“I retired young, and I use my time now to give back to the community,” says Lyndsay.

Westfield Local Heroes are nominated and voted for by their communities, with the three top finalists per Westfield centre each awarded a $10,000 grant for their affiliated organisation. Lifeline will use its grant to fund more than 141 face-to-face counselling sessions.

For further information on the Westfield Local Heroes program, click here