Narrabri hospitality on show for Black Dog Ride’s visit

Almost 26 participants in the NSW Black Dog Ride received a warm welcome to Narrabri when they set out to take in the sights of the North West.

The Black Dog Ride raises awareness of depression and suicide prevention and aims to spark conversations in communities.

The visitors arrived to Narrabri to receive a welcome Lions Club breakfast held at the Narrabri Men’s Shed.

“The people here are so nice,” one of the ride’s organisers Nerolie Falconer said after being hosted for breakfast.

“We picked Narrabri as it’s central for our NSW people.”

Each state has an annual ride and it’s an initiative open to all.

The Black Dog Ride was officially farewelled from Narrabri with a barbecue dinner at the Narrabri Motel and Caravan Park. Pictured, Robyn Archer, centre, with Nerolie and Bear Falconer.

“Anyone can start a Black Dog Ride, there just needs to be a coordinator,” Bear Falconer said.

“Anyone who wants to ride is welcome. You might find like-minded people you can associate with.

“The Black Dog Ride is getting bigger and bigger. The word is getting out about it.”

Black Dog Ride participants come from all walks of life. For some, their participation in the initiative is a way of being with like-minded people.

For others, suicide has impacted their life and want to ensure people know help is available.

Mark and Judy Williamson joined the Black Dog Ride after losing their son to suicide.

“If we can save one person’s life, it’s worthwhile,” Judy said.

“It hits home at every corner.”

Black Dog Ride participants received a warm welcome to Narrabri at a welcome barbecue, hosted by the Narrabri Men’s Shed. The visitors were treated to a delicious Lions Club barbecue breakfast as well as coffee.

Earlier in the year, the couple were at a pigging competition and someone noticed the Black Dog Ride mascot, Winston.

After speaking with the couple at length, he revealed he had been in a dark place and thanked them for their support.

Narrabri Men’s Shed member Ian Schweitzer organised the Black Dog Ride welcome breakfast.

“They have been a great group,” he said.

“The Lions Club did a wonderful job with the breakfast. And the coffee van was great.”

During the visit, the participants enjoyed taking in sights like Sawn Rocks and the Burren Junction bore baths before setting off on their journey to Tenterfield, Grafton and then Yamba.

The Narrabri visit wasn’t complete without a farewell function, and Robyn Archer was pleased to thank participants who had been staying at the Narrabri Motel and Caravan Park.

The Black Dog Ride crew reminisced about their experiences in Narrabri and said they hoped to again return after the support they had received.

If you or anyone you know needs help: Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467, Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.