Steve and His Team

Steve

I am an explorer from way back. When I was eighteen I rode across Australia on a motorbike.

I had long held a dream to ride around Australia and here was a purpose, a compelling, driving reason for me to fulfill that dream and at the same time raise much needed awareness about the insidious nature of depression.

Whilst I have not suffered personally from depression it has had a major impact on my life. Four weeks after the birth of my 4th child my mother tragically took her own life. I did not understand at the time why, but have subsequently discovered that she had for many years battled depression. That was over 15 years ago but I still carry the regret that I didn't know of her struggle with this silent killer and often wonder if things could have turned out differently had she and her family and friends been more aware of this illness.

I believe that awareness of this illness, and even the fact that it is an illness, is paramount to save more lives around Australia.

On a personal note, I am a father of five which keeps me very busy and I am now a grandfather for the first time.

Social Media Management

Tony Hollingsworth

Winston - Moral Support & Mascot

Winston was Steve's companion on the inaugural Black Dog Ride around Australia and has been on every Ride! Winston is very well behaved and spends most of his time sitting quietly on the pillion seat of the bike. Winston never barks or takes a bite! People stop to say hello to Winston and Steve on the road.

Why Winston?

Winston Churchill had a black dog

his name was written on it

It followed him around from town to town

It'd bring him down

took him for a good long ride

took him for a good look around

Reg Mombassa: Black dog