A charity morning walk for suicide prevention will take place this Saturday, 9 May 2026, as the Port Douglas community joins the global “Darkness Into Light” movement.

Organised by the Four Mile Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) in collaboration with Cafe Fresq (the club’s sponsor), the event is a 5km dawn walk designed to raise both awareness and critical funds for mental health initiatives.

Participants will gather at 5.00am to begin the walk through Port Douglas, timed to reach the beach exactly as the sun rises. 

This symbolic transition from night to day represents the journey from the “darkness” of mental health struggles into the “light” of hope and recovery.

Following the walk, the community is invited to Cafe Fresq for a "Coffee Rave," featuring a live DJ and breakfast specials to encourage post-walk connection and support.

The event serves as a fundraiser for both local and international support services. 

Proceeds will benefit the Port Douglas Neighbourhood Centre’s local counseling program, providing vital resources to the community, as well as Pieta House, an Irish charity specialising in suicide and self-harm prevention.

Suicide prevention is a cause close to the hearts of the local Gaelic soccer club.

Caoimhe Forkan, Secretary at Four Mile GAA, says the club felt it was time to step up as a support system beyond the sports field.

“There’s been a growing awareness of how important mental health is within our own community,” Caoimhe said. 

“As a club, our main goal is to create a community where we can train, have a laugh, and get to know each other. That bond makes people more comfortable expressing how they feel."

For the Irish expat community in Port Douglas, the walk is a special way to feel connected to home.

“Darkness Into Light is powerful in its simplicity, it gives people space to reflect and feel part of something,” Caoimhe said.  

“Organising this is a way of honouring those we’ve lost, supporting those who are struggling, and reminding everyone that they’re not alone.”