There were pumping tunes, on-stage entertainers, a fire crane, two helicopters, volunteers in high-vis jackets, and students from at least four Ballarat schools, offering fruit, refreshment and inspiration at every turn.

Despite the seriousness of the cause - "to stomp out the stomp out the stigma surrounding mental illness and suicide" - for event organiser John Shanahan it was important to have an occasion everyone enjoys.

His son Nathan, a returned soldier and a passionate mental health advocate, died by suicide in 2016. The walk has been held in his memory since, encouraging emergency services personnel to speak out about mental health.

Mr Shanahan said: "I want it to be a carnival atmosphere. I want it to be a celebration where people are walking, laughing, enjoying - even for people that feel they can't walk."

Mr Shanahan said he was pleased more events could take place this year. He has just returned from the inaugural Walking off the War Within event in Brisbane, set up by Nathan's colleagues.

"They're all finding it extremely difficult," he said. "It's great we've got the news of the Royal Commission now going to be held. We've really got to make the most of this."

A few steps ahead of Mr Shanahan was Alex and Danielle Morton - Mr Morton is a paramedic, a job Ms Morton also used to have. Mr Morton, who was carrying his daughter Isabelle when The Courier spoke to him, had known Nathan from the local gym.

"When he passed away, someone with all the external appearances of strength, it hit home to me that we can often have these internal battles," he said.

"It doesn't matter what badge, what service you're from, we all face those issues. Coming together as one and walking as one - it's a great way to have many conversations with many different people."

Setting an impressive pace with a 25kg load on his back, Leading Senior Constable Steve Cuomo was another taking part for very personal reasons. He was there in memory of Ron Fenton, a police officer who survived being shot in the line of duty in 1984, but died of cancer earlier this month.

"He was quite a resilient man," Mr Cuomo said. "He fought his own demons with PTSD and attempted suicide but he never gave up."

With his old friend's search and rescue hat pinned to his uniform, Mr Cuomo said taking part meant a lot.

"It's a fantastic cause, just to highlight how important mental health is, not only among emergency services and the military but also everyday Aussies, that it is ok not be ok.

"I am currently off with PTSD myself. It's important to me as well."

If you or someone you know is in need of support, phone Lifeline 13 11 14.

Help is also available, but not limited, via the following organisations. The key message is you are not alone.

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