STAFF WRITERS

 

‘SOUNDS of Strength’, a musical evening to support the Code 9 Foundation, featuring performances by Mick Harrington and Dane Nicholls, will be held this Saturday (February 22), from 7pm to 11pm at the Traralgon Recreation Reserve.

The event will raise money for the foundation, which provides support to current and veteran professional first responders and their families living with PTSD, depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions as a result of their service to the community.

Money raised will go towards initiatives such as peer-to-peer programs, respite accommodation, kids camps, and assistance dogs for first responders with PTSD.

Gippsland local Harrington, celebrated for his soulful performances on The Voice Australia, said music had the power to bring people together.

“I’m honoured to lend my voice to support first responders who have given so much to our communities,” he said.

Nicholls, a Gippsland native and talented songwriter, said performing at Sounds of Strength was a privilege, “especially knowing the difference we can make for first responders and their families”.

Code 9 Foundation President, Mark Thomas said 10 per cent of first responders will suffer a mental health injury during their career.

“Events like this not only raise essential funds but also show first responders and their families that they are not alone in their journey,” he said.

“Our mission is to ensure that current and veteran professional fire fighters, police, ambulance and 000 (Triple Zero) operators and their families know that ‘You’re Never Alone’.”

The mental health challenges faced by first responders are significant, with many carrying the emotional weight of their service long after their shifts end. The Code 9 Foundation’s mission is to ensure that these professionals and their families have access to support, resources, and community.

Events like Sounds of Strength help shine a spotlight on these challenges and provide critical funding to deliver programs that make a tangible difference in the lives of first responders.

The mental health challenges faced by first responders are significant, with many carrying the emotional weight of their service long after their shifts end.

For tickets and more information, visit: code9ptsd.org.au/sounds-of-strength