Black Dog raise conversation in light of mental health

ON SATURDAY, October 14, the volunteers of Black Dog Ride united with Biketoberfest. 

Bair Street, Leongatha was closed off by police, and a motorcycle display was presented in the Leongatha Memorial Hall with all public proceeds donated to Black Dog Ride. 

Organisers of Biktoberfest Terri and Rozz invited the national charity to be part of the local event to help raise funds for mental health programs in Gippsland. 

Hundreds of motorcyles lined Bair Street before organiser Bernie Garrey of Black Dog Ride led the riders on their first Gippsland route through Meeniyan, gathering at the RSL on Saturday evening. 

From Sunday morning the ride continued through to Traralgon before setting off for Bendigo on Monday, the trail then continued through Alexandra to Mansfield on Tuesday.  

The volunteers will then take to the road from Mansfield to Lakes Entrance, before returning to Korumburra on Thursday. “Connecting with communities on the way brings attention to the cause.” 

“We have had more than 2700 volunteers join us on our rides in the past 12 months,” said Bernie. 

“We are grateful to Biktoberfest for inviting our national charity to be a part of the Leongatha event this year, and for their support in donating their funds for the motorbike display to Black Dog Ride.”

It was a gold coin donation for the public to view bikes from the pre-50’s, pre-70’s and pre-90’s – all going into a judging category, with the option of a people’s choice. 

“Black Dog Ride embarks on annual state rides each year, with likeminded people working together for mental health. We welcome all individuals, families, and businesses to get behind the cause,” said Bernie. 

“Together we can make a sustainable difference in people’s lives.” 

To apply for a community grant from the Black Dog Ride visit blackdogride.org.au