A 37-year-old Halls Head man plans to ride all the way from Esperance to Omeo in Victoria to ‘create a mentally healthier world’.

Daniel Fitzgerald is a local carpenter and is representing the Black Dog Institute, known for its work with preventing and treating mental illness.

Fitzgerald told Steve Mills on Millsy at Midday that the 3000-kilometre cycle is to raise awareness after his friend took his life.

“We lost a mate, Wheelin, hence the name ‘Wheelin to the Mountains’ for our trip,” he said.

“He was from Omeo as well,

“There’s been a couple of other suicides for such a small town, and I’ve had my own mental battles,

“We thought we’d raise awareness through the Black Dog Institute… and get people talking about it.”

Tap PLAY to hear Daniel’s story and the importance behind his ride.

Click here to read more about Daniel’s ride and to donate to his cause.

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