Growing up on Sydney’s Northern Beaches isn’t all sandy shorelines and cosy cafes - just ask Ocean Alley guitarist Mitch Galbraithit.

Feeling “privileged” to hail from a community with plenty of “work and places to play”, Mitch reflects that his seemingly always-sunny hometown is not immune to the devastating effects of youth suicide.

“Mental health (issues) and youth suicide is very prevalent in our area,” he told HuffPost Australia.

“It’s a thing that has affected us all directly in the band. I’ve lived here my whole life, I’m 28, there’s been a dozen people.

“It’s quite a bubble, as small communities are and everyone knows everyone. It’s just something that keeps happening.”