Local trio take on City2Surf race

Amanda Norman, Tammy Sanderson and Sarah Morelli will join thousands on the 14km course, in a bid to raise funds for local mental health charity More Than Awareness.

“That’s one of the biggest things we’re keen on, is not just running it, but running it for such an important charity,” Sarah said.

“Rural suicide’s so high and it plays such a big part in country towns, we’re proud to wear the logo.” 

Tammy is looking forward to the positive atmosphere, with so many race-goers supporting their own causes.

Amanda said mental health was an important issue for many rural communities. She said farmers need to be encouraged to stop hiding their struggles and realise there is help available. 

“I’ve spent most of the last 20 years in very rural areas and I see a lot of farmers and particularly their wives, struggling a lot,” Sarah said.

“They don’t feel there’s any support or not a lot of it, and they’re ashamed of it. So it’s really important.”

With the words “Suicide is the leading cause of death in people under the age of 44 in Australia. Being concerned about it isn’t enough to change it,” printed on the back of their shirts, the trio is determined to create a call to action. 

More Than Awareness seeks to take mental illness past the awareness stage and face it head on with research and training. To sponsor Amanda, Tammy and Sarah’s run, visit the More Than Awareness Facebook page.