Frontier Services, a 110-year-old Australian legacy charity, says that the rate of suicide in rural and remote Australia is double that of in our cities (1), as they play a crucial role with both their Bush Chaplains and volunteers supporting people in the aftermath of a tragedy.
Paul McCosker, is a third-generation farmer, 65km from Inverell, and a caring father and doting grandfather. However, it was when his son Joshua’s marriage began to crumble, that cracks began to show with Joshua.
Joshua, who ran a successful plumbing business, had always been able to find work, if not in town, then on the farm. A five-year long drought followed by a lightning strike last year only worsened his struggles.
At only 41-years old Joshua took his own life.
Frontier Services supported Paul, as they say that the suicide rate in rural and remote Australia is alarming, with a rate of between 150% to 200% higher (1).
Paul who carries the weight of that loss everyday says: “I blame myself. If there was anything that I could have done, I would have.”
Frontier Services’ Bush Chaplain Noel Williams says that there is a real urgency to addressing this issue in the bush, so that more men feel they are supported and have somewhere to turn to.
Noel says: “Issues in the bush revolve around how people cope with grief and loss. Many struggle with mental health, falling into deep rabbit holes of isolation. For some, opening up about their struggles feels like a double-edged sword. Seeking help can be vital, yet it also comes with challenges.”
Carl Milnes, a volunteer at Frontier Services, who has also been providing support to Paul, says: “I don’t find that Paul has given up. Yes, of course, he is down – but he has strong opinions like a normal bushman.”
Paul adds that people like Carl make a real difference: “I appreciate Carl and Frontier Services. It helps a lot to have someone to talk to.” Frontier Services play a pivotal role in addressing these issues especially in rural and remote communities that deal with isolation issues, lack of connectedness and a lack of available support services.
Media Release: Frontier Services
