The fourth event was a we affair but one of the most powerful yet, featuring speakers such as former beyondblue chief executive Ian Hickie and Indigenous journalist Stan Grant.

Mental health advocate Nic Newling, who has spoken at hundreds of towns across Australia, told the crowd he had never witnessed another event like the solstice.

“I know we’re all here together for the same reason and this is the sort of grassroots stuff that’s really making a meaningful difference – and you don’t have to be a high-up person to make a difference,” he said.

“To me, suicide shouldn’t be a swear word, and it seems like people here are absolutely willing to confront the situation.”

Mr Newling, who shared his personal experience of losing his brother Christopher to suicide, said prevention began in the calm before the storm. 

“I’d love every single one of you to have a conversation even when you’re feeling good and they’re feeling good,” he said.

“I think there’s really something to be able to sit with somebody face-to-face and I know particularly in rural areas, there’s less of that.

“I’d love to see more people out there learning and practicing that kind of therapy.”

Mr Newling said he was blown away by the passion of Annette and Stuart Baker to spearhead such a movement.

“You sometimes go, wow – this was born from a really horrible tragedy, but look what’s happening now,” he said.

Mr Baker said the supporters of the solstice would always attend – rain, hail or shine.

“It’s always a great event and the turnout has shown just how passionate people are,” he said.

Crowds gathered by the fire, listened to the tunes of Archie Road and Nancy Bates, and shared tributes. Xavier High School student Ashleigh Gould, 17, said there were a number of people she wanted to honour during the solstice.

“It was a message for those who have passed and for those still fighting to keep going,” she said. “I think this night especially shows how far these things can go when you don’t speak up – we were lucky my sister did.

“Sometimes it does go unknown how loved you are and it’s just important people know that.”