I was deeply saddened to hear about the death of Dallas Keogh-Frankling on Saturday.
Dallas was a local 17-year-old, who attended Castlemaine Secondary College, played Under 18s football for Castlemaine Football & Netball Club, and cricket for Harcourt Cricket Club.
I am sure that there is so much more to know about Dallas than just these things, just as I know that his sudden death, after a football match against Kyneton on Saturday, is affecting many people in our community.
On behalf of myself, my fellow councillors, and all of us at Mount Alexander Shire Council, I convey our great sorrow at the loss of Dallas, and send our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, teammates, and all who are grieving him.
We are only a relatively small community, here in Castlemaine and the shire, but we are incredibly connected, and incredibly good at coming together to support and care for each other when we need to. So, even though my heart is hurting for Dallas, and all those grieving his loss, I have already witnessed such kindness, connection, and strength occurring in the wake of this tragedy – and know that there is plenty more to come.
Please, continue to be kind to each other and look after each other. And please reach out for help, if you need it – you do not need to carry grief alone. Talking to someone, whether a friend or family member, or a professional can really help (see some helpful resources below).
Rosie.
Resources
Griefline
Griefline provides a national toll-free helpline from 8.00 am to 8.00pm, Monday to Friday (AEST).
Call: 1300 845 745
They also have a free Book a Call service allowing help-seekers the option to schedule a grief support call from a specially trained Griefline telephone support person.
Grief Australia
Grief Australia provides bereavement counselling and support services.
Call: 9265 2100 or 1800 642 066
Lifeline
Lifeline operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Call: 13 11 14
Kids Helpline
Kids Helpline is a free, confidential counselling service available any time of the day or night by phone or webchat, for those aged between 12 and 25.
Call: 1800 55 1800
Headspace
Headspace is an online and telephone support service that helps young people who don’t feel ready to attend a headspace centre or who prefer to talk about their problems via online chat, email or on the phone.
Call: 1800 650 890