Don Ritchie

Australian 'Angel of the Gap' who prevented hundreds of suicides through compassionate intervention

Don Ritchie (1926-2012), a decorated WWII naval veteran, became globally recognized for his extraordinary humanitarian efforts at Sydney's suicide hotspot known as 'The Gap'. Over 50 years, he personally intervened to save an estimated 500 lives through simple acts of kindness and conversation.

Living adjacent to the cliff edge, Ritchie would approach distressed individuals with his signature phrase: 'Is there something I could do to help you?' His approach combined psychological insight with deep empathy, often inviting people back to his home for tea. Mental health experts later documented his unique suicide prevention methodology that emphasized human connection over clinical intervention.

The Australian government honored Ritchie with the Order of Australia Medal in 2006. His legacy inspired new crisis management protocols and the installation of prevention infrastructure at high-risk locations worldwide. Today, his family continues suicide prevention advocacy through the Don Ritchie Foundation.