Concert cause for returned servicepeople

AN upcoming event aimed at raising funds for the region’s returned servicepeople experiencing post-traumatic stress injuries is set to bring eight local acts to Burrumbeet Racecourse.

Next month’s Mates Day concert marks the return of the annual event after a four-year absence.

Proceeds will go towards veterans’ support group Military Brotherhood Motorcycle Club’s Western Victorian chapter.

Organiser, Chris Wilson, said it’ll be a fun, relaxing way to give back to those who fought for their country.

“It starts at midday with some acoustic acts then we go to a softer band then an Irish group to get your toes tapping and get everyone out of their seats and dancing,” he said.

“It’s a general good day where people can get together, sit down, relax, have fun, and donate for a good cause.

“It’s not a ticketed event either. It’s donation only.”

Acts include Shane Gilbert, Mid Life Crisis and Co, Deluxe, White Line Fever, The Shorts, Old Melbourne Road, The Aliens, as well as performers Steve, Rach, and Georgie.

A family barbecue and food trucks will also feature.

With more than $10,000 raised for the Military Brotherhood Motorcycle Club, Mr Wilson said the event averaged about 1000 attendees annually since starting in 2016.

“It grew out of a personal party I had with about 500, 600 people,” he said. “The first was an accident concert I had at Camp Street which grew from one band to six.

“People were throwing money at it and we wanted somewhere for it to go.”

Mr Wilson said the wellbeing of returned servicepeople is an important cause to support.

“They’ve fought for our freedoms so it’s important to raise awareness about what some of them are going through,” he said. “It’s a silent disease, something you can’t see.

“I know a few of the boys personally who’ve come back and struggled a bit so that’s why I wanted to funnel the funds to them.”

The Mates Day event will run from 12pm to 10pm on Saturday 11 November.