After coming through a "dark place" mentally and emotionally five years ago, Josh Salter decided to reach out to others going through a tough time.
He embraced the chance to organise a Black Dog Ride, an annual nationwide motorcycle event aimed at raising awareness of mental health, depression and suicide prevention, with a focus on men.
"I experienced a marriage break-up and went into a bit of a dark spot and had nowhere to go, and kept it to myself, as men do. It can be difficult for men," Mr Salter said.
"I suffered a lot myself with depression and anxiety and I thought this would be a good step for me to open up and I took the opportunity with open arms … it's changed my life a lot."
The Black Dog Ride began in 2009 and has since evolved into a national charity, with an iconic "one-dayer" ride on the third Sunday of each March, now held in about 40 regions across Australia.
Mr Salter organises the Port Macquarie one-day ride on the NSW Mid North Coast and this year it attracted more than 200 riders, who gathered to chat and share stories, before setting off on a ride through the region.
"Each year it's grown bigger and bigger; it's about getting the word out for men who are struggling in life with their mental health, getting them to open up and chat about life events," he said.
"It's all about people who are in dark places and feeling alone, holding things in, it's about them coming out on the ride … and for anyone and everyone to ask, 'Are you okay, how's things?'
"The amount of people and stories you hear on the day, it's quite overwhelming."
'I'm not afraid to speak up now'
Beyond Blue's lead clinical adviser Grant Blashki said the Black Dog Ride was an important way to raise awareness of mental health issues.
"Nine people take their lives in Australia each day, and three-quarters of those are men," Dr Blashki said.
"Important events like the Black Dog Ride help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and suicide, and bring people together to start much-needed conversations.
"Fewer men than women seek support for their mental health and community events like this can really help reduce the sense of isolation people may feel."
Mr Salter said the Black Dog Ride had played a big role in helping him turn things around in his own life.
"It's helped me tremendously … I am not afraid to speak up now if I get into a bit of a dark place, there's always someone in the community and I can pick up the phone and talk to [them].
"I'm the happiest I have ever been with three beautiful boys, and two stepkids and my partner now. Everything has fallen into place."
Support for veterans
Among those taking part in this year's Port Macquarie ride was Rob Griffiths, a Coffs Harbour-based member of Military Brotherhood, an Australia-wide military motorcycle club that supports veterans.
"Obviously among veterans there's a lot of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and suicide is a big issue with the veteran community, and we are here to support them," he said.
"Over the whole country we get involved with Black Dog Ride as much as we can.
"It's always a good start for a conversation, just introducing ourselves, and getting out there can help someone."
