Black Dog Ride’s inaugural adventure to the Apple Isle sets off in late October from every state and territory to raise awareness of depression and suicide prevention, finally gathering in Hobart to celebrate the coming together of Black Dog Riders and the culmination of an inspiring grassroots suicide prevention project.
Every year in Australia, 1,000,000 adults and 100,000 young people live with depression. 50% of those people won’t seek treatment and sadly, each year, nearly 3,000 will take their own lives.
Black Dog Ride began in 2009 as one man, Steve Andrews, decided to take to the roads on a month-long solo motorbike journey around Australia to help raise community awareness of depression and to create a national conversation so people living with mental ill health could feel able to talk about it and seek support. He also raised some $34,000 for the Suicide Call Back Service and engaged thousands of Australians with his message of awareness.
Steve’s constant companion throughout the trip was a toy black dog representing the black dog of depression which Winston Churchill so famously diarised. Steve called his dog Winston and his ride, Black Dog Ride.
Since that first journey, Black Dog Ride has developed into a national suicide prevention charity involving thousands of Australian motorcycle riders who’ve raised more than $2,200,000 for mental health services, fostering mental health awareness around the country.
Black Dog Riders have engaged thousands of Australians from all walks of life whilst raising both awareness of depression and funds for suicide prevention services. From counrty women making hundreds of scones for Black Dog Riders on their way through town; to stockmen raising awareness of depression by raising cattle for Black Dog Ride; to being the impetus for people to seek training as community educators in mental health – Black Dog Ride has not only inspired the community on a national scale but has motivated community members to inspire others in turn.
The National Motorcycle Alliance is proud to be a supporter of Black Dog Ride and we wish all those heading to Tasmania smooth roads, fine weather and safe riding.
For more information on Black Dog Ride or to make a donation go to www.blackdogride.com.au