The Banish the Black Dog Ride is a relaxed cycling tour which raises funds for Australian Rotary Health Fund – targeting and supporting mental health research. The purpose of the ride is to raise awareness of mental health issues in the broader community and to raise funds to support research into mental health.

The inaugural ride was held in 2009 and received magnificent support with 85 riders raising over $22 000 for ARH. In the three years we have been riding, we have raised well over $100,000 for the research if Depression and other mental issues.

In 2012 we hope to exceed boost that total further.

Participants in the 2012 ride will depart Townsville on the Saturday to cycle through the cane fields and crops of the magnificent Burdekin region of North Queensland to the Burdekin Agricultural College at Clare. There riders will be able to camp out on the broad, shaded lawns. On Sunday morning they return to Townsville via a different route which passes around the base of Mount Elliot. Cyclists travel at their nominated speed in a small group supported by a group leader and two support vehicles. Meals are provided.