Don Ritchie — SPARQNOW

At-a-Glance

Awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2006 for "service to the community through programs to prevent suicide."
Officially rescued at least 180 people from suicide attempts at The Gap over a 45-year period.
Named "Citizens of the Year" for 2010 by Woollahra Council with his wife Moya.
Received the Local Hero Award for Australia in 2011 from the National Australia Day Council.
Served as a seaman aboard HMAS Hobart during World War II, witnessing the Japanese surrender in Tokyo Bay in 1945.

Biography

Donald Taylor Ritchie (1926-2012) was an Australian individual renowned for his compassionate interventions in suicide attempts at The Gap, a cliffside location in Sydney. Over a 45-year period, Ritchie officially rescued at least 180 people, with his family estimating the number to be closer to 500. His method involved approaching individuals in distress, often initiating conversation with "Can I help you in some way?", and then inviting them to his nearby home for tea and a chat.