The charity’s chief executive officer Pete Shmigel said the change in data collection and analysis reinforced links between feelings of isolation and despair in the community.

Mr Shmigel said the changes in recording living arrangement, age and Indigenous status of callers helped create a better understanding in how support is offered. And data highlighted the need for greater social connection.

Quarterly data released this week revealed 42 per cent of callers were aged 45-65 years.

More than 10 per cent of Ballarat’s population lives alone, according to Australian Bureau of Statistics. Sebastopol bowler Jim Benney does not mind living alone.

Mr Benney said there was a difference between living alone and loneliness.

The 59-year-old is self-employed and works part-time and dabbles in vintage cars and archery for hobbies. He spends most of his time playing bowls. 

Apart from enjoying a roll, Mr Benney said all bowls clubs had a great social element and offered a great support network.

“There is always someone around to talk to...it’s more than just bowls," Mr Benney said. “The good thing about the club is people are always willing to help those living alone with chores around the house or visits to hospitals.

“If someone is a bit down, we look out for them – all bowls clubs are like that.”

Bowls also offers Mr Benney an active outlet.

Lawn bowls in the summer, indoor bowls through winter and the domed roof at Sebastopol keeps Mr Benney playing the game all year.

Ballarat’s bowling fraternity also encourages inter-club interaction for members to visit and play on each other’s greens and carpets.

Mr Benney said bowls was a popular social option for people who had lost their partner or newly retired men, whose wives were not used to them hanging around the home as a social outlet.

Lifeline keeps caller details confidential but the organisation is keen to better understand caller demographics, adapting services and outreach, to tackle Australia’s soaring suicide emergency.

For crisis or suicide prevention support call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit www.lifeline.org.au/gethelp.