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Racing Mates are encouraging racing participants to recognise Mental Health Month and to “start the conversation” at the next BBQ ‘Get-Together’ which will be held at Hawkesbury Races on Tuesday 28th October.

Hawkesbury Race Club will partner with Racing Mates in hosting the October event which aims to bring participants together for a chat and a bite.

The 2025 NSW Mental Health Month theme is "Taking Steps on Your Wellbeing Journey" which encourages everyone to recognise and celebrate the progress they make in improving their mental health and wellbeing.

It is also about understanding that it is a continuous process with ups and downs rather than a fixed destination as many look to overcome mental health challenges.

Racing Mates Ambassador, Pat Webster has praised Hawkesbury Race Club for supporting the Mental Health initiative following a successful get-together in 2024.

“We were very pleased with the Hawkesbury Racing Mates Mental Health Month event in October 2024 which was a great success,” Webster said.

“Racing Mates gatherings are all about bringing participants together and encouraging open discussions and providing them with assistance, which was certainly achieved last year. We hope to achieve that again this time around.

“Without the support of Race Clubs, these events are not possible, and we are very appreciative of Hawkesbury Race Club and their support.”

Racing Mates is a peer support initiative established by Racing NSW in 2016 which empowers mates to look out for mates.

Appointed ambassadors, who include trainers, jockeys and administrators, act as a port of call for those seeking support. The program then links to professional psychologists and counsellors for the benefit of Racing participants who are experiencing challenges.

“Wellbeing is a journey and every step counts,” Webster said. “Even small actions, such as taking a break, connecting with others, or seeking support, are valuable steps forward."

The Racing Mates BBQ will be held for participants from 11.30am at the James Walsh Bar of Hawkesbury Race Club, prior to raceday.

For further information about Racing Mates and its Ambassadors go to racingmates.com.au