The sound of roaring motorbike engines filled the streets of Gunnedah on Wednesday.
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Riders from across Queensland took to the streets of Gunnedah to raise awareness for depression and suicide awareness as part of the national Black Dog Ride.
Starting in Brisbane the team of riders will continue south to Melbourne where they will board a ferry and continue the ride through Tasmania.
Queensland Black Dog Ride team member Jamie Painter said the team would pick other riders up along the journey.
“All told we are expecting something like 250 to 300 bikes to ride through Hobart,” Mr Painter said.
“For us it’s about starting a conversation about mental health and breaking down the stigma.
“We really want to spread the message that there is always hope, don’t keep it in talk to someone.”
Mr Painter said one of the team’s goals was to connect people to services that can help people in need.
‘Connecting people in country towns is vital,” he said.
“Our message is to not keep it in, so we connect people to services like Lifeline, Beyond Blue, Mental Health First Aid and even your local G.P, all of those services can help.”
The team have toured the region making stops in Armidale, Guyra, Uralla and Tamworth.
To donate to the Black Dog Ride visit www.blackdogride.com.au
If you or anyone you know needs help contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.