Local residents Pam and Betty have been Lifeline counsellors for 12 months.

They do shifts together and have made many friends.

``We did the course this time last year and met some fabulous people there,'' Pam said.

``We've stayed really good friends now and even get together outside Lifeline it's lovely.''

Applications for this year's final telephone training course will close soon.

Lifeline chairman executive officer Alan Redman said two 17-week courses were held each year and applicants do not need university degrees.

``It's simply a matter of wanting to care for members of their own community who find themselves in crisis,'' he said.

``The course taught me how to become a good listener and how best to support our calls from people in crisis.''

Pam said the course taught her skills which she uses every day.

``I've got so much out of it myself by just learning how to listen to people, I don't think we do it enough,'' she said.

``The support from the staff at Lifeline is wonderful. There is always someone there to support you.''

Betty said she has been trained to listen to people.

``I have five kids and this has helped me realise that life is short and I should take more time to stop and listen to what my kids are trying to tell me.

``It's changed my way of thinking and I've learnt to empathise with people.

``The whole thing is a wonderful experience and the staff at Lifeline are very supportive.''

For details, call Lifeline Macarthur on 46457200.