Harvest Road Group sets new record with $15,500 bid on Black Dog Steer to raise funds for mental health

The charity, which was set up in WA in 2009, raises awareness of mental health and suicide prevention and has organised an annual steer auction as part of its fundraising efforts since 2011.

Harvest Road Group, the diversified agri-business of Andrew and Nicola Forrest which includes the Harvey Beef brand, is a long-time supporter of the charity.

Tattarang Director Nicola Forrest AO said all funds from Winston’s purchase will support a wide range of organisations and initiatives that raise awareness of mental health and suicide prevention, boost community connectedness and access to comprehensive mental health services.

“As someone who grew up on the land and remains deeply passionate about regional areas, I know just how important it is to feel you belong to a community, especially when times are tough,” Mrs Forrest said.

“People living in remote and rural areas, especially young people, deserve the same access to mental health services as those living in our cities.

“That’s why the work of the Black Dog Ride is so important, because it not only raises awareness of these issues, but it also offers practical support on the ground, particularly in rural locations where they can directly benefit people in need.”

This year’s steer, “Winston 15”, weighing 570 kilograms after 118 days on feed, was bred and donated by Leon and Kerrie Giglia from Sinagra Farm in Dardanup, WA. The steer is named Winston each year, in honour of Britain’s wartime

Prime Minister, Winston Churchill, who suffered from the “black dog” of depression.

The Black Dog Ride Steer auction at the Royal Perth Show is the brainchild of Dardanup beef producers Peter and Judy Milton, who set it up in 2011 when they realised so many regional Australians were suffering with depression.

For more information on the Black Dog Ride please visit: www.blackdogride.org.au

f you or someone you know is experiencing mental health issues, call:

• Lifeline on 13 11 14
• Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
• MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978
• Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467