Sunset run success

THIS year, the Flying Brick Bellarine Sunset Run raised almost $6,000 for Bellarine Community Health’s (BCH) youth services and programs.

Since its inception five years ago, the event has now raised more than $25,000 for BCH, something event organiser Dion Milne said he was really proud of.

“I grew up not knowing I had a few issues because it wasn’t talked about much back then, there was a stigma and we were told to have a good sleep and a plate of veggies.

“Children now can access programs like headspace run out of Bellarine Community Health’s site in Drysdale and other youth focused health services. That’s why we throw our support behind raising funds through the four-kilometre walk.”

The Milne family started the event five years ago and chose BCH as their charity partner because of Mr Milne’s personal connection with mental health, having lived with depression and anxiety.

Mr Milne said the walk was renamed the ‘Bully Buster Walk’ in recognition of the major impact bullying has on youth mental health; children under 12 participate in the walk/run for free and over the past few years almost 800 children have taken part.

“Each year when I stand in front of the four-kilometre walk and all those kids, I fight back tears. It is personal to watch the kids and know that you’re doing something good.”

Executive director of BCH’s child, youth and families Liz Womersley said they were appreciative of the Milne family’s efforts.

“We’re extreme grateful for the ongoing support from Dion, his wife Liberty and their two children Marli, 11, and Peyton, 14.

“It’s fantastic that the event brings attention to BCH youth services and the need for mental health support in the community, it brings people out in the community to be active, which is great for mental health.”