Ride for mental health

The Black Dog Ride involved families from across the west and Geelong. (Supplied)

By Alesha Capone

More than 160 motorcyclists turned out in support of a charity ride with an important cause recently.

The Annual Black Dog 1 Dayer Ride, which raises funds for depression and suicide prevention, is traditionally held in every Australian state and territory on the third Sunday of March.

Motorcyclists gathered at Caltex in Werribee for the local event, hitting the freeway to Geelong during for the 300 kilometre-long ride which also travelled through The Otways.

Motorbike riders from across Melbourne’s west and Geelong participated in the ride, organised by Gary Stooke.

Black Dog Ride began in 2009 as a ride to raise awareness of depression, evolving into a national charity involving thousands of Australians who have since raised millions for mental health programs.

One in five Australians experience a mental health condition each year, while 3 million Australians are living with depression or anxiety.

Contact Lifeline Crisis Support on 13 11 14 or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800 for support.