News & Events

WRAD launches short story competition


WRAD is launching a short story competition to showcase recovery from addiction.

The competition is open for friends, families and supportive community members to write short stories with the focus on recovery from alcohol and other drugs and to highlight the message that treatment works.

Prize money of $2,500 will be on offer and the winning stories will be published on WRAD’s new website, newsletter and highlighted excerpts in the local media.

Warrnambool-based author Paul Jennings will be patron and judge of the competition.

Mr Jennings said he totally supported the work of WRAD in helping people to deal with alcohol and other drug-related issues.

“Sharing these stories is a way of stimulating discussion in the community and to show there is a road to recovery,” Mr Jennings said.

WRAD Director Geoff Soma said the competition was an opportunity for people to use their perspective to generate discussion and understanding about addiction issues.

“Discussing addiction helps to destigmatise the problems and to show others that it is a health issue that could afflict anyone in the community.

“We hope this competition inspires people to address their problems. Often people affected by addiction don’t ask for help because they feel stigma and shame; this needs to change.”

The stories have a 1000-word limit. The competition starts March 19 and entries must be lodged by April 30.

The first prize will be $1200, second $650, third $400 and $250 for a Paul Jennings special award.

For more information, people can contact Geoff Soma at WRAD or Rick Bayne on 0418 140489.

Submissions can be lodged to The WRAD Centre 172 Merri St, Warrnambool or email info@wrad.org.au.

In a separate initiative, WRAD will be compiling a special publication telling the personal stories of clients who have recovered from addiction after treatment.

Organisation

Our Vision & Values

WRAD HEALTH’s vision is to advance the health and wellbeing of those in the South Western Region of Victoria affected by Addictive behaviours and to promote optimal enjoyment of life.

WRAD HEALTH seeks to provide comprehensive, holistic support and treatment to individuals and others affected by addictive behaviors and associated issues.

The philosophy of harm minimisation underpins the delivery of all programs offered by WRAD HEALTH. This principle recognises that people in our society use both licit and illicit drugs, and that drugs can be used in ways that are more or less harmful to individuals, families and society. Harm minimisation offers a number of options designed to reduce the harm of drug use to the user and society.

Resources

Need After Hours Help?

Emergency call 000
For medical issues call South West Healthcare 55 631666
For mental health issues call SWH emergency dep't 55 631 666 or 1800 808 284
For drug and alcohol issues call Directline 1800 888 236
For Lifeline call 13 11 14
Or click on the links below for help.