Taking a leap of faith for Queensland mums in need

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Steven Miles has jumped at the chance to support Queensland mothers struggling with depression by abseiling Kangaroo Point Cliffs alongside 10 high-profile Brisbane women.

As part of Queensland Women’s Week, the Leaping Ladies event aims to raise much needed funds and awareness for mental health support servicesprovided through White Cloud Foundation. 

Minister Miles said he was delighted to support this worthy cause that affects one in every seven new mothers in the community.

“Sadly, Queensland has the highest rates of perinatal depression in Australia and depression is the leading cause of death in women during pregnancy. Together with White Cloud Foundation we are determined to change this statistic.

“There is a strong link between a mother’s ability to take care of herself and cope with the huge changes that motherhood brings, and the impact that has on mental health. By meeting basic nutritional and social needs of vulnerable mums we can make a difference. 

“Every single mum we can help matters. With the funds we raise today we can support another 80 women this year, and that’s a mission I can really throw myself behind.”

White Cloud Foundation provides practical support to women in some of the state’s busiest maternity hospitals including RBWH, Caboolture, Redcliffe and Gold Coast University Hospitals as well as Children’s Health Queensland. 

Professor Adam Scott, founder and chairman of White Cloud Foundationsaid it was the second year the event was held. 

“Last year, we raised over $11,400, this year we hope to raise even more and I thank the Minister and our leaping ladies for being part of this important event,” Professor Scott said. 

“Women and mothers are the foundation of our community, so with Queensland Women’s Week upon us, what better time to shine a light on this issue.”

This year’s Leaping Ladies are:

• Katherine Feeney, Afternoons Presenter, ABC 612
• Natasha Perry Qantas Pilot
• Jacqui Bell, Extreme Sportswoman
• Dr Liz Rushbrook, Executive Director of Medical Services, Metro North Hospital and Health Service
• Adele Frost, International model
• Janet Barron, National Sales Manager, Sunland Group
• Katrina Blowers, Journalist and Presenter, 7 Network
• Jodie Rogers, Senior Operations Supervisor, Major events and planning, Queensland Ambulance Service
• Kath Innes, Acting Assistant Commissioner, Queensland Police Service
• Gillian Nasato, Acting Deputy of Operations, Metro North Hospital and Health Service

Mothers can call 1300 702 926 for direct support and for more information and to support White Cloud Foundation visit www.whitecloudfoundation.org

Background:

• White Cloud Foundation provides immediate and real support to women at risk of peri-natal depression, by referral from Queensland Health’s perinatal mental health services in four major maternity hospitals including RBWH, Caboolture, Redcliffe and Gold Coast University Hospital.
• The White Cloud Foundation helps increase resources and improve access to treatment and support for people, families and carers who live with depression in Australia.
• Each year over 1 million Australians are diagnosed with depression with many more that go undiagnosed, untreated and unsupported. 
• Depression is currently the leading cause of non-fatal disability in Australia, with less than 50% of people receiving medical care. 

ENDS

Contact: Katharine Wright – 0428 957 903