Memorial launched for those who go unseen and the loved ones left behind

The Goulburn Valley primary health provider said the event would be open to the whole community, and will be a supportive space for sharing experiences, offering comfort, and fostering connections.

This year’s commemoration theme for International Overdose Awareness Day is ‘Recognising the Unseen Heroes’.

“We really wanted to acknowledge International Overdose Awareness Day in the most meaningful way for our community,” Primary Care Connect media and communications co-ordinator Shara Scott said.

“We have recently revamped our community garden space and have installed a vertical garden wall, where members of the community, who have lost a loved one to overdose, can lock a padlock adorned with a personal, engraved message.

“This poignant and lasting memorial will serve as a permanent tribute to those who have been lost to overdose within the community.”

Primary Care Connect chief executive Tricia Quibell said the majority of overdose cases were linked to pharmaceutical medications, rather than illegal substances, and that better education around prescription use was needed and the stigma associated with drug overdoses eradicated.

“One thing is definitely clear though, and that is that the stigma surrounding addiction and overdose is wrong, and addiction and overdose do not discriminate,” she said.

“By providing a safe space, accurate information and promoting open dialogue, Primary Care Connect aims to foster a supportive community environment that encourages individuals to seek help and address the issue head-on.”

Coroner’s Court of Victoria records for the eight quarters between July 2020 and June 2022 show that 1031 people died from overdose around the state during that period.

Males accounted for two-thirds of overdose deaths in that time.

For both males and females, the age groups with the highest deaths were in the 35 to 44 and 45 to 54 age groups.

Primary Care Connect tribute lunch and memorial event

If you are seeking help and support for substance use or addictions, for yourself or a loved one, you can contact Primary Care Connect’s consumer care team on 5823 3200.