Dozens of motorbike riders streamed through Ballarat on Saturday morning for the first Stand Tall for PTSD ride, aiming to raise awareness.
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Organised by the Vic West Military Brotherhood Military Motorcycle Club, veterans were joined by other first-responder motorcycle clubs, including the Red Knights, for a lap around Learmonth and down the Avenue of Honour.
There was a brief stop at the memorial underneath the Western Freeway, which includes a list of battles fought by Australian soldiers.
MBMMC vice-president Bob Reid led the ride, and said it was a good way to get talking about how post-traumatic stress can affect people.
The only downside to the ride was the amount of traffic lights along Sturt Street, on the way to the LT Fraser Reserve for a sausage sizzle.
"To be able to get other ex-defence members who are in the fire brigade, and in their bike club - even people who aren't in defence - on the ride is really good," he said.
"There are a lot of individuals out there who would like to help but don't know how, like how we set up the BVAC for people."
President Matt Lund said he was riding for his brother, who suffered from PTSD, and eventually took his own life.
"I'm very passionate about it," he said.
"We've got a few members in the club that actually have PTSD who are here with us today.
"We're losing veterans every day, so we want to do something that might help one - if we can save one, that's a good thing.
"It's great to have everyone here, because it's like a family, everyone's got a lot in common and they want to support causes like this."
Geelong's Charles Vella, Red Knights Chapter 3 president, was riding with his son Alex.
"PTSD affects not only the military - I'm a firefighter, it affects us, the police, the ambos, we're more than happy to support it," he said.
"I've been a Red Knight just over 10 years - I've met a lot of good guys, we've had a lot of good times.
"It doesn't matter what you ride, it's all about the comradeship."
It's hoped the ride, supported by the Ballarat Veterans Assistance Centre, will become an annual fixture.
If you or someone you know is in need of crisis 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.
- Beyond Blue 1300 224 636 or beyondblue.org.au
- Suicide Callback Service: 1300 659 467
- Soldier On: 1300 620 380
- Open Arms: 1800 011 046
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