The Millicent and Surrounding Areas Health Support Group has recently entered its fifth year of community advocacy.

It was founded in February 2018 at a public meeting attended by 100 people at the Millicent War Memorial Civic and Arts Centre.

Headed by retired mill worker Trevor Sinclair and commonly known as the MASH Group, it has released the 2022 edition of its popular pamphlet which outlines the contact details of various local health services.

As before, the printing costs have been met by the Millicent Health Advisory Council.

There are close ties between the MASH Group and the Millicent HAC with Ron Wood being a member of both groups.

The MASH Group has looked to boost its profile by running a competition to gain more followers on its social media costs.

A number of Millicent businesses donated prizes as part of the promotion.

The MASH Group has also enlisted a number of high-profile guest speakers on health-related topics to its monthly meetings.

They have included Red Cross Limestone Coast regional services manager David Walshaw and Focus One Health’s Vicki Fabris.

Tracey Wanganeen from Standby – Support After Suicide Anglicare SA addressed the MASH Group in February.

Ms Wanganeen gave the group an overview of the 24/7 services available at no cost to regional South Australia supporting those bereaved or impacted by suicide.

StandBy provides free face-to face or telephone support by local caring staff, they are committed to the wellbeing of the person or group impacted.

It also provides locally tailored community workshops and education programs are provided to increase awareness of suicide and suicide bereavement to help enable communities to support one another.