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The Illawarra community is rallying behind the inaugural Race Against Suicide Raceday which is dedicated to raising awareness and vital funds for mental health and wellbeing initiatives.

The Illawarra Hawks and St George Illawarra Dragons have joined 10 local charities and service providers in supporting the event at Kembla Grange Racecourse on Saturday 21st June.

Win Television, i98FM, Channel 10, and Southern Cross Austereo are also on board and the official luncheon, which is already sold out, will be hosted by i98FM’s Christian and Bella and feature a panel of experts moderated by local personality Marty Haynes OAM, Dan Hunt, Co-Founder of Mental Health Movement, and Toby Dawson, NSW Chair for Suicide Prevention Australia.

They will be among those sharing their insights and discussing the prevalence and impact of mental health conditions.

One in two Australians will experience a mental health condition at some point in their lifetime, and nine Australians die by suicide every day.

“Even one death by suicide is too many, and the effects are widespread and devastating,” Operations Manager Chloe Hackett said.

“It’s clear this cause deeply resonates with the Illawarra community and it’s wonderful to have such a strong backing for an event that’s being held for the first time.”

Local support services will have pop-up marquees on site where racegoers can learn about the resources available, collect information, and chat to representatives about their needs. They include:

• The Man Walk
• Women Illawarra
• Illawarra Shoalhaven Suicide Prevention Collaborative
• Lifeline South Coast
• Raising The Bar
• Stride For Better Mental Health
• Standby: Support After Suicide

Racing NSW’s peer support initiative Racing Mates will be hosting a barbecue get together for industry staff before the races begin.

Horses in the Wollongong Crane Trucks “Dazza’s Dash” will carry black saddle cloths, strappers will wear black bibs, and there will be 30 seconds of applause to remember loved ones lost to suicide.

St George Illawarra Dragons have giveaways throughout the day and racegoers can test their skills on the famous inflatable Pass the Ball Board. There will also be free entertainment for children including a disco dome, blow-up rock’n’roll wrestling, The Simpsons jumping castle, face painting, and fairy floss.

Proceeds from the day will be directed to providing local support and reducing the impact of suicide in The Illawarra.

“The Race Against Suicide is more than a raceday, it’s a community statement,” Chairman Mark Sleigh said. “Our aim is to make this an annual event that transcends racing, promotes understanding, and prompts important conversations with our friends and family.

“We would love to see the racecourse packed out and encourage everyone to come along, enjoy a day out, and take the opportunity to increase their knowledge, “Chloe Hackett said. “We are also seeking donations of gifts and services to assist with fundraising efforts.”

Tickets are available via Moshtix