Climbing to the summit for mental health support

THIS September, a group of riders will get on their bikes to raise money for mental health support.

Top of Mount Buninyong Rider (TOMB Rider) will take place on Friday 27 September from 8am.

The 15.8-kilometre course will start at De Soza Park and follow a similar route to Road Nationals with a few variations, including riders heading to the top of Mount Buninyong.

“Metaphorically speaking, a lot of people who struggle with mental health issues, it is like they’re climbing their mountain,” said Michael Lewis, event organiser.

“When they’re climbing, they don’t know how far they have to climb, and it can be a very lonely and difficult place.

“Obviously we are not in their shoes, but we are extending a hand out saying we are thinking of you.”

Business and the local community are invited to donate their time, money or resources.

Funds raised will go towards providing community members with mental health first aid training.

The training will be provided by Ballarat Community Health, the event’s major sponsor.

“People in everyday areas of life in their workspace, in their home, with family and friends will be able to have these skills to recognise warning signs,” said Mr Lewis.

“The best way to think of it for people who don’t know what mental health first aid is, is that it’s like normal first aid.

“People with mental health first aid training will be able to respond to these situations and circumstances.”

Ballarat Sebastopol Cycling Club is supporting the initiative and president Tim Canny encouraged the community to get on board.

“Now more than ever we are finding out that people are battling poor mental health so treating those people is becoming more and more important,” he said.

“My advice to businesses around Ballarat is to get on board and fund some mental health first aid for our community.

“You’ll be doing a great thing not only for this event, but a really good thing for the entire community.”

To donate or get involved, visit tombrider.com.au.