Motorcyclists across the region are gearing up for an annual fundraising ride that supports the work of Lifeline Northern Rivers and raises awareness of mental health issues.
This year’s Compresson v Depression ride will also have a major fundraising raffle as part of the event, where the winner will receive a brand new Suzuki DR 650SE motorbike, valued at $8000.
Organisers said the ride, which will be held on Sunday, 6 November, raises funds for Lifeline Northern Rivers’ local 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention service.
‘The ride promotes awareness of the mental health issues that can potentially affect anybody in our community and highlights the positive part that we can all play in de‐stigmatising and responding to those issues,’ organisers said.
The event is expected to attract around 150 local motorcycle enthusiasts.
‘They come from all walks and stages of life but are all committed to having a great day out hanging with their mates and making a difference while doing so,’ organisers said.
Compression v Depression is open to all motorcyclists regardless of what they ride.
The event kicks off at the Green Garage, corner Tennyson and Browning St, Byron Bay, with a chance to get breakfast from 7am.
Registration for the ride begins at 7.30am.The registration cost is $30 per person which includes lunch and a $10 ticket for the major raffle. The ride departs Byron at 9am sharp and finishes at the Alstonville Bowling Club for the main prize draw at 3.30pm.
Organisers said the event was first held in 2010 and had gone from strength to strength over the past seven years.
Compression v Depression 7 is an all welcome event that raises funds through sponsorship, registration fees, memorabilia sales and raffles. All proceeds from the event go to Lifeline Northern Rivers.
Compression v Depression isan initiative of Northern Rider Quarterly Magazine.