Geelong’s Sophie Anstis is a dedicated volunteer team leader at Lifeline Geelong. She speaks with Jena Carr about what she likes about living in the region and helping people in need.
What is your connection to Geelong?
I grew up in Ballarat and moved to Geelong when my partner was studying engineering at Deakin University Waurn Ponds.
My connection to the Geelong community began when I started volunteering at Lifeline Geelong, where I now work as the volunteer team leader.
What do you like about where you live?
I like the variety and accessibility of lifestyles we have in Geelong, including access to the beach, bush, city, wineries, great cafes, and coffee.
What, if anything, would you change about where you live?
I have a 15-month-old son who is now running around like a madman. I would love to see more playgrounds and parks with full shade coverage.
Where is your favourite place to spend time?
I love spending time anywhere outside with my dogs, son and husband.
What is something people may not know about you?
I’ve taken more than 2,000 phone calls to Lifeline’s 13 11 14 crisis support service.
I have also supported the training, supervision and recruitment of hundreds more crisis supporters who help answer calls.
What do you like about your role with Lifeline?
I truly believe in Lifeline’s mission of an Australia free of suicide.
We can’t rely on everyone else around us to work on suicide prevention, but we need to be the change we want to see, which is why I started volunteering with them initially.
I love the diversity of my role as a team leader, as I am involved in many aspects of work training, assessment, supervision, and well-being.
I answer calls myself while providing supportive feedback and coaching to others.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
If anyone would like more information about possibly joining us at Lifeline, they can contact me directly at Sophie.Anstis@lifeline.org.au
