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Racing Mates partnered with Illawarra Turf Club in hosting a special BBQ get-together for racing participants at Kembla Grange in support of the 'Race Against Suicide' race meeting that was held on Saturday 21st June.

The race meeting was dedicated to raising awareness and vital funds for mental health and wellbeing initiatives in the Illawarra districts, with Racing Mates supporting the initiative by connecting with racing participants on the day.

“It was fantastic to have Racing Mates at our first annual Race Against Suicide Raceday,” said Illawarra Turf Club's CEO, Steven Keene.

Attending the Racing Mates BBQ (L-R): Phillip O'Brien (Racing NSW), Pat Webster (Ambassador) and Warwick Farm trainer Clarry Conners

“I believe it is important that clubs support this great initiative, that does amazing work on a topic that is so prevalent in society now.

“The BBQ was very well received, as I am sure their messaging was also.”

Racing Mates ambassador Pat Webster hosted the event which brought smiles to the faces of many participants on the day.

“It’s important that we check in with each other and encourage those requiring further help to seek support,” Webster said.

“Whether they're going through something big, something small, or maybe nothing at all, your support can help. Your conversation could change a life.

“We are especially thankful to the volunteers on the day, including Sharon Prince and Oliver Keene who did a terrific job on barbeque duties.”

Mental illness remains high among Australians with one in two likely to experience a condition during their lifetime.

The Racing Industry is not immune to those statistics and Webster is encouraged by how far the industry has come since Racing Mates was launched by Racing NSW in 2016.

“The awareness around mental illness these days is great, and we can't do it without the great support of race clubs,” Webster said. “If we can help at least one person – then we’ve done our job.”

The Kembla Grange race meeting also featured 10 local charities and service providers, which was the initiative of race club operations manager, Chloe Hackett.

“We look forward to holding more events with Racing Mates in the future,” Keene added.

For further information please visit the Racing Mates website – Racing Mates - which offers a suite of resources including direct helplines, referral pathways, and useful information tailored to racing industry needs.