Pedalling to raise awareness of veteran homelessness

COINCIDING with the Department of Veterans’ Affairs Veterans’ Health Week, a group of dedicated cyclists will travel from Warrnambool to Box Hill via Ballarat in the inaugural Tour de V Centre.

The 460-kilometre event running from 12-16 October, is aimed at raising awareness of veteran homelessness across Australia.

It will also highlight services available to veterans who are struggling.

Studies have shown that veterans are almost three times more likely to experience homelessness than the general population.

Currently, approximately 6000 veterans are without a home.

Suicide rates among veterans are double for men and even higher for women compared to civilians.

Executive general manager veteran services at Vasey RSL Care Chris Gray said he hoped the ride would open up vital conversations.

“It’s really important to make sure that regional communities are aware of the supports available to veterans, particularly housing solutions and specialist programs,” he said.

“This event will bring communities together and remind veterans they are not alone.”

Vasey RSL Care’s V Centre Veteran Empowerment Program, in Ivanhoe, combines safe accommodation with tailored support services for veterans who are homeless, at risk of homelessness, or struggling to adjust to civilian life.

Warrnambool-based veteran and co-organiser of the ride, Adam Kent, said the event represents the power of community.

“I really believe in approaches where everyone comes together to support those who need it,” he said.

“Veterans, and anyone who is struggling, deserve to know that they are not alone – that the community is right behind them.”

Before crossing the finish line in Box Hill, riders will stop in Ararat, Ballarat, and Geelong where community events and fundraising dinners are planned.

Anyone who would like more information or to get involved, can visit vaseyrslcare.org.au/tour-de-v-centre.