MOTORCYCLISTS will depart from Kalamunda Agricultural Hall on Sunday, March 15 for the Avon Valley Black Dog Ride, raising awareness of depression and suicide prevention.

The annual event is part of a nationwide initiative run by Black Dog Ride, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to raising awareness of mental health issues and supporting suicide prevention across Australia.

More than 100 riders took part in last year's Avon Valley ride, and organisers are hoping to attract even more participants in 2026.

“It would be great to see even more riders get involved this year,” coordinator Gayle Nelson said.

This year’s ride will depart from the Kalamunda Agricultural Hall at 9.45am, with Mayor Margaret Thomas set to officially open the event, before travelling through the Avon Valley and finishing at the Grass Valley Tavern.

Black Dog Ride events are held nationwide on the third Sunday in March, with thousands of riders taking part to help start conversations around mental health and suicide prevention.

Riders can register via the official website at blackdogride.org.au.

For more information about the Avon Valley ride, contact coordinator Wes Sutton at avonvalley@blackdogride.org.au.

If you or someone you know needs support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.