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Seeking support and “starting the conversation” can make all the difference.

That’s the key message driven by Racing Mates, who led a campaign throughout October in recognition of NSW Mental Health Awareness month.

Highlighting the campaign was a World Mental Health Day BBQ Get-together which was hosted by Hawkesbury Race Club on 10th October which brought Racing Mates ambassadors and racing participants together for a bite and “a chat.”

Hawkesbury Racing Mates (L-R): Rick Johnston, James Heddo, Pat Webster, Leonie Ferreira and Phillip OBrien

“Mental Health Month is celebrated every October in NSW which encourages us to think about our mental health and wellbeing,” said Pat Webster, Racing Mates Ambassador.

“We are thankful to James Heddo and Hawkesbury Race Club in approaching Racing Mates and offering to host the BBQ Get-Together which was a great success in bringing participants together for a chat.”

This year’s Mental Health Month theme “Let’s Talk About It” prompts us all to reflect on our mental health and overall wellbeing, irrespective of whether we’ve personally encountered mental illness.

It emphasises the significance of maintaining good mental health in our daily lives and encourages a proactive approach to seeking help when necessary.

Racing Mates has been the racing industry’s leading support program since being established by Racing NSW in 2016, with the primary objective of providing peer to peer assistance and support to participants from all levels of the racing industry as well as members of their families.

Hawkesbury Race Club praised the Racing Mates program and aims to continue the Mental Health Awareness BBQ as an annual raceday event.

“Racing Mates is a wonderful initiative and Hawkesbury Race Club is pleased to play a small role in promoting Mental Health Awareness,” said Hawkesbury Race Club's CEO, James Heddo.

“All my staff enjoyed contributing to the success of this event and I encourage all industry participants to not be afraid to start the conversation.”

Webster was joined by other Racing Mates ambassadors Leonie Ferreira and Rev. Colin Watts, along with volunteer Jess O'Brien and at the Hawkesbury gathering.

“These gatherings are essential and pave the way for Racing Mates to talk to our local trainers, jockeys, strappers, owners and other racing personnel who may have need for support or advice,” Webster said.

“It’s important for us all to check on our racing mates and anyone out there who is struggling is more likely to reach out to a trusted peer or colleague for support.

“Racing Mates can assist in providing the link between those in need and the required support.”

Further information about Racing Mates and its Ambassadors can be found online at www.racingmates.com.au