SUICIDE prevention is at the heart of a charity bike ride which leaves Bathurst on March 23.
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Motorcycle riders from Bathurst and surrounding districts will be hitting the road to take part in a ride to raise awareness of depression and suicide prevention.
Local Bathurst social motorcycle club The Bathurst And District (BAD) Hobos are hosting a Bathurst to Forbes leg of the nationally held Black Dog 1 Day Ride.
This ride, which involves motorcyclists across the nation from 31 locations, is to show support and raise funds for Lifeline and mental health services.
The Black Dog Ride, an independent not-for-profit organisation, was founded in 2009 by Busselton man Steve Andrews who lost his mother to suicide.
It has grown substantially since then, with 5000 bikes hitting the road in last year’s one-day ride.
Organiser of the Bathurst leg Sue Hancock said suicide is the leading cause of death in Australians under 45 with regional areas having a higher rate than the national average.
“Mental illness is also the leading cause of disability. This makes it all the more important to run an awareness event in regional centres,” she said.
Participants are encouraged to register early for this event. Ms Hancock said all entries before March 16 will go into the draw to win a unique hand-crafted 9ct gold Black Dog Ride One Dayer ring valued at $1500.
The Bathurst leg of this event will start at Alan Morse Park where breakfast will be available from 8.30am. Next stop will be Cowra for morning tea, then on to Forbes, where lunch will be available at Lake Forbes.
To register, make a donation or purchase merchandise, go to www.blackdog ride.com.au. Donations can be made via Everyday hero website, search for Bathurst Dayer (as a supporter).
Contact Rose Hancock on 0414 927 743, or email badhobos@live.com for more information on the Bathurst leg of the ride.
If you need any help or support contact Lifeline, 13 11 14, MensLine, 1300 789 978 or beyondblue on 1300 224 636.