August Update

Hi Rosemary

Next Sunday 21st August the rumble of hundreds of motorbikes will be heard all around Australia as Black Dog Riders commence their Ride to the Red Centre to raise awareness of depression. On the way they will take part in over 40 community events, 35 of them hosted by Lions Clubs. 

Spirit of the Ride

During the lead up to the Ride there have been a number of  heartwarming stories come to light. Here is a copy of an email sent to me by our Adelaide Ride Coordinator,  Boyd Stuckey.

G'day mate. I just wanted to share this with you, as it totally blew me away. I heard from a pensioner yesterday who desperately wants to do the Ride, but is a bit strapped for cash. He asked if I knew of anyone who might be prepared to share some accommodation with him, and split the costs. I sent an email out to my guys, asking the question. I received the following response from a Rider: "G'day Boyd, I can't make it now, as I'd earlier intended, but would like to help out. Would it help if I threw $50 at you to help him out?" These guys have never met, but here's a bloke prepared to give his own money to help out a perfect stranger! Warms the cockles of your heart doesn't it? My faith in human nature is restored! Cheers, Boyd. 

Where's Winston?

This year, all registered riders on the Ride to the Red Centre will be accompanied by a Winston, our Black Dog Ride mascot. Thanks to a new sponsor Softrock Solutions, you will be able to track Winston and the riders through the fantastic Spot Satellite GPS Messenger which will accompany the Perth, Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne groups. All you have to do is go to the BDR website Homepage and click on the Spot icon. Combined with the live Twitter feed on the Homepage you'll be able to enjoy your very own "virtual" Black Dog Ride. 

BDR Documentary

We are excited to announce that the compelling BDR documentary will again be screened on TV this week.

Northern Territory: Imparja TV  Saturday 20th at 5.00pm

South Australia: Ch44 Adelaide Tuesday at 8.30pm, Thursday at 1.00pm and Friday at 7.00pm

If you aren't able to catch these screenings and missed the premiere on WA's West TV here are links to the YouTube version. Part 1 and Part 2  

FMT by Bulldog Trading

Another generous new sponsor, Bulldog Trading, has donated one of the amazing Folding Motorcycle Trailers (FMT) to this yaer's Ride. We'll be towing it behind the WA support vehicle, in case of the unlikely event of a breakdown, and then we're going to auction the trailer at Glen Helen Resort with proceeds going to the Black Dog Institute. Send us an email if you would like to make a bid on this fabulous trailer which is valued at over $1500 on road.

How can you help?

It's simple! Our Ride raises awareness of an illness which is reaching epidemc proportions, an illness whch sees over 50% of sufferers not seeking treatment. Through our interaction with communities along the way we will do our best to destigmatise depression. We will also raise funds for the Black Dog Institute  to help them roll out their Community Education Programs nationally.

Your donation will help make a difference. DONATE HERE!

Cheers...Steve