The event drew a crowd of more than 350 people to the shores of Sydney Harbour to hear from people who had lost loved ones or friends to suicide and to know that they are not alone in their loss, and to celebrate the lives of those who had passed away.
"It was an opportunity for those left behind to come together in a spirit of comfort and hope," said Wesley Mission CEO the Rev Dr Keith Garner.
"God is near in our sorrow; he is present in those who comfort and support us."
Event MC and ABC 702 radio presenter Simon Marnie said the presence of people at the service was an indication of their strength in the face of loss.
"I can't begin to imagine how any of you are feeling today," he said. "But I strongly believe we are all a part of the same community and that we are all entitled to ask for help and support. It's important to give yourself permission to talk about how you are feeling, it's important to give yourself permission to talk about your grief.
"By talking openly about our grief and pain we are ultimately giving permission for others around us to talk about their pain and grief. Linking together in our sorrow and grief shows that suicide is a community issue and does not need to be hidden."
Belinda Gray shared her heartbreak at the loss of her husband and emphasised the importance of telling her story publicly. She encouraged others to grieve and to support each other.
Brian Hall shared his story relating to the loss of his brother and the grief he felt for "not having the answers" at the time.
Hundreds of sunflowers were cast into Sydney Harbour as a gesture of love and remembrance to those who had died.
The event was also made richer by Greg Townley who performed a song in memory of his friend Pat who passed away just a few months ago.
Actor, entertainer and LifeForce Patron Paula Duncan also shared her grief about the loss of a friend. "We need to be open to talk about the grief of suicide in our community and nation," she said. "This service offers that opportunity."
Wesley Mission LifeForce offers workshops and seminars in suicide prevention and has trained more than 15,000 people nationally in suicide prevention strategies.
Around 2,200 people complete suicide each year in Australia – 40 per cent higher than fatalities from motor vehicle accidents.