Gallagher Bassett (GB) will sponsor the new Head to Head fundraising walk to raise awareness of police mental health.

Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton will walk to Wangaratta from Mallacoota police station in Victoria’s east, and Police Association Secretary Wayne Gatt will walk there from Mildura in the northwest, a combined distance of 1000 km. Police members and the association will take part in the walk.

The walk will generate funding for former members in need of mental health support. It will take part from October 1 to 23.

GB CEO John McNamara says GB is honoured to help raise awareness of the unique challenges faced by emergency workers and the mental health battles they may experience.

The company has also expanded its “gentle bear” trauma teddy program into Queensland. The bears are presented to police agencies throughout the eastern and central half of the country to assist their work with children who are experiencing trauma.