WITH all that is going on, it's even more important to keep up the conversations and look after your mates.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
That's what Rose Hancock, co-ordinator of the Bathurst leg of the Black Dog Ride One Dayer, says of the current difficult circumstances as the state faces the coronavirus threat.
The one dayer was held recently, starting at Bathurst, heading to Europa Park, Cowra for morning tea and ending at Lions Park in Forbes.
"Participants were then encouraged to head into town for lunch and to chat to locals about what the day was about," Ms Hancock said.
"Bathurst had 80 bikes on the day with 16 pillions and 11 Winstons - the cute little Black Dogs that sit on our tanks and seats and help us to start conversations."
Bathurst had 80 bikes on the day with 16 pillions and 11 Winstons.
Ms Hancock said it was the 10th annual Black Dog Ride One Dayer (which aims to encourage conversations about depression and help prevent suicide) and the seventh for Bathurst.
"Nationwide there were 38 rides and, on the initial count, they estimate there were more than 6000 participants," Ms Hancock said.
"We didn't go out and try to canvass raffle prizes this year as we felt that local businesses had already been hammered enough with the fundraising for the drought and bushfires, but we still had people offer support.
"Huge thanks to Access All Loans, The Farmer's Arms Hotel, TLE Electrical and Dad N Dave's Yard Maintenance.
"Even after not proactively putting our efforts into fundraising, we still managed to raise over $1500, with some still to be collected.
"Funds raised will go into a gift fund where any mental health-focused community group can apply for a grant for a project they would like to implement. Contact Black Dog Ride for more details."
Ms Hancock thanked all the "participants, volunteers and businesses that have supported our efforts over the years".
"After being co-ordinator for the seven years, I have decided to step down and hand over the reins to some fresh young blood who can keep it going," she said. "There has been some interest already.
"If anyone would like to be a part of the organising, contact myself on 0414 927 743 or message us on Facebook - Bathurst Black Dog Ride One Dayer."
Next year's ride will be on Sunday, March 14, 2021.
