General News
17 March, 2026
Backing the black dog ride
THE Cairns community is being encouraged to get behind the local arm of the Black Dog Ride fundraiser by registering to ride in the 2026 One Dayer or participating in local fundraising to help start a national conversation about depression and suicide prevention.
This year’s Black Dog Ride ‘One Dayer’ motorcycle ride will be kicking off at Australian Armour & Artillery Museum and following a route throughout the region.
In 2025, more than 6,000 participants took part nationwide, helping raise over $300,000 to support mental health and suicide prevention.
The majority of money raised through the One Dayer ride is funded back into local communities via the Black Dog Ride Grant Program, which directly supports regional and rural areas where access to mental health services and free support is limited or non-existent.
“Each year, the Black Dog Ride One Dayer reminds us that meaningful change starts at a local level,” Cairns Black Dog Ride Coordinator, Clifford Nelder said.
“We know first-hand that when community members, volunteers, clubs and businesses unite behind a shared cause, the ripple effect can be felt right across the country.”
Locals who want to register or donate can head to:
One Dayer Registrations www.bit.ly/40oPJCg
Make a donation: www.bit.ly/3P0QXkB
Buy some Black Dog Ride merch: www.bit.ly/4uCvlvk
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, or with someone who is, contact the helplines below. If the situation is life-threatening, call 000 immediately.
Lifeline Crisis Support – 13 11 14
Samaritans Helpline – 135 247
Lifeline Online Crisis Support Chat Service – (7pm - Midnight AEDT)
Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467
Kids Helpline – 1800 551 800
MensLine Australia – 1300 789 978
SANE Australia Helpline – 1800 18 7263
Veteran’s Line – 1800 011 046
ADF All Hours Line – 1800 628 036
Family Violence Crisis Line – 1800 737 732
Mates in Construction – 1300 642 111
StandBy - Support After Suicide - 1300 727 247
