Steph’s Pit Lane Reflections
By Stephanie Robinson, CEO Lifeline Central West
They say happiness and wellbeing are a journey — not a destination. I couldn’t agree more.
If only it were that easy — one day you wake up, everything’s balanced and peaceful, and you hit pause so it stays that way forever! But just like fitness or health, wellbeing takes ongoing work.
The good news? We’re all in the same race, and we can help each other along the way.
Life in the Fast Lane
A few years ago, outside my favourite café in Dubbo, a wise friend told me something that changed my life:
“You’re a race car, Steph. God designed you that way. You need to run like that — it’s who you are.”
At first, I laughed — but then I realised he was right. I’m fast-paced, I push hard, I take risks, and I’m fuelled by passion for the work we do. But even race cars can’t run flat out forever.
They need the right fuel. The right tyres. A pit crew. A co-driver. And most importantly, they need to know when to pull into pit lane.
A race car performs best when the conditions are right — when it’s filled with the proper fuel, when it’s on tyres that suit the track, and when the support crew knows when to say, “Time for a stop.”
But a race car isn’t “better” than any other vehicle. Some people are classic cars, taking the scenic route and noticing every detail. Others are workhorses — utes or SUVs — steady, reliable, and always ready for the next challenge. What matters isn’t the model, but whether you know your owner’s manual and take care of yourself accordingly.
Refuelling for Wellbeing
Just like cars, we all have different ways to refuel. Some of us need quiet, others crave connection. Some recharge through creativity, others through movement or time outdoors.
Whatever fills your tank — make time for it. Because running on empty has consequences.
For me, the warning lights appear when I start rushing through decisions, getting impatient, or losing my usual sense of joy and humour. I notice I stop celebrating small wins, I avoid rest because I “don’t have time,” and I convince myself I can go one more lap before the next stop. Sound familiar?
That’s when I know it’s time to pull into pit lane — to slow down, reconnect, and remind myself that self-care isn’t selfish. It’s how I keep the wheels turning for the long haul.
Refuelling doesn’t always mean grand gestures or week-long breaks. Sometimes it’s as simple as taking five quiet minutes in the sun, sharing a coffee with a friend, turning off notifications, or saying no to something that drains your battery.
It’s also about checking the quality of the “fuel” you’re running on. Are you feeding your mind and body what they truly need — good food, rest, laughter, connection — or are you running on adrenaline, caffeine, or obligation?
It’s not weakness. It’s maintenance. And it’s what keeps us in the race — so we can keep showing up for the people who rely on us, and for ourselves.
Mental Health Month – Taking Steps in Your Wellbeing Journey
This October, as we mark Mental Health Month under the theme “Taking Steps on Your Wellbeing Journey,” I’ve been reflecting on what it really means to stay on the road — even when the track feels rough.
The reality is that more Australians, especially young people, are struggling with mental ill health than ever before. The Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS) recently reported that by age 19, one in three young people have experienced suicidal thoughts or behaviours. For too many, distress appears suddenly and without warning.
That’s why at Lifeline Central West, we’re committed to doing more than just responding in crisis — we’re investing in prevention and early intervention.
I’m proud to share that through partnerships with the Phillips Foundation and its Living Ripples program, together with the Waratah Foundation, we’re expanding our Tackling Tough Conversations training into regional schools including Portland Central School, Oberon High School, and Coonabarabran High School.
This program helps young people build resilience, coping skills, and confidence to navigate life’s challenges and seek support early.
These collaborations allow us to reach communities that might otherwise fall through the cracks — giving hope to young people, families, and schools who need it most.
Celebrating September’s Wins
When I look back on September, it’s no wonder a service might be due!
Our teams were everywhere — from Women’s Health Week events to Out of the Shadows Walks across five towns, to connecting with local leaders and delivering training in schools, workplaces, and community halls across NSW.
We were honoured to receive the Central West Emergency Services Team of the Year Award, and we celebrated stories that remind us why this work matters — from a client whose life was turned around by financial advocacy, to another who rediscovered hope and connection through counselling.
Every kilometre we travel, every workshop we deliver, every conversation we start — it all adds up to one thing: helping people stay in the race.
Looking Ahead
As the year races on, there are more opportunities to connect — from the Blue Moto Ride and Bathurst Spring Garden Spectacular this month, to the VIC100 cycling challenge and Christmas Book Fair in November.
Each event is another step — or lap — on our shared journey of wellbeing, powered by community spirit and the incredible people who make it all happen.
So, take care of yourself, check your fuel, and remember: it’s okay to pull into pit lane now and then.
That’s how we make it to the finish line — together.
At the end of the day, I think that’s what Mental Health Month is really about — recognising that we’re all doing our best to stay on the road, even when the track gets bumpy. Some days we fly, some days we just make it to the next corner, and both are okay. What matters is that we keep showing up, for ourselves and for each other. Because together, we’ll always find our way back to the pit lane — to rest, to refuel, and to rise again.
Together for Life
Stephanie Robinson
CEO, Lifeline Central West