Honouring Ros Worthington: Dawn Gathering to Shine Light on Suicide Prevention

West Australians are being invited to gather at dawn in Kings Park on Sunday 14 September for the annual Out of the Shadows Walk honouring the memory of those lost to suicide.

This year’s event is especially significant as it has been renamed the Ros Worthington Out of the Shadows Walk to pay tribute to its founder, the late philanthropist Dr Ros Worthington OAM.

Held each year to acknowledge World Suicide Prevention Day, the walk brings people together in remembrance, reflection and hope among the sanctuary of Perth City’s iconic park and botanic gardens.

Ros Worthington first became part of the Lifeline WA story nearly two decades ago after losing her husband and soulmate, Roscoe, to suicide.

Already a respected force in charitable work, this devastating loss ignited her determination to prevent other families experiencing the same heartbreak.

In 2016, she created the Out of the Shadows Walk at Kings Park, a gentle dawn gathering that has since grown into a national movement, with communities across Australia walking together each year.

Lifeline WA Chief Executive Officer, Lorna MacGregor, said renaming the walk was a fitting tribute to Ros’s compassion and vision.

“Ros was all heart. She understood the deep pain of suicide loss and the healing power of coming together,” she said.

“The walk she created has given comfort, connection and hope to so many people.”

Ms MacGregor said Kings Park has always been a place of reflection, healing and connection for the community which makes it the perfect location for the emotionally moving event.

“Holding the walk at dawn in Kings Park creates a powerful symbol of hope,” she said.

“As the sun rises, it reminds us that even after the darkest night, light returns. That is the message Ros wanted to give to people experiencing loss.”

The City of Perth is once again proudly supporting the event, helping ensure it remains free and accessible for all.

“We are grateful to the City of Perth for continuing to support this important community event,” Ms MacGregor said.

“Their contribution helps us provide a safe and welcoming space for people to come together in remembrance.”