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Riders put on positive spin

Busselton Dunsborough Times

A record number of cyclists will saddle up for this year’s Hawaiian Ride for Youth, which will pass through Busselton this month.

The ride will raise funds for Youth Focus, which supports youth at risk of anxiety, depression, self-harm and suicide.

About 182 cyclists — including Deputy Premier and Mental Health Minister Roger Cook and former AFL champion Beau Waters — have registered for the 3000km ride across regional WA from March 20-24. Riders will stop at regional towns and high schools to communicate the importance of good mental health and emotional wellbeing.

Youth Focus chief executive Fiona Kalaf said 54 West Australians aged between 15 and 24 died from suicide last year.

“Statistics show more than one young person dies to suicide each week, leaving their families dealing with the abject grief, guilt and pain of losing a loved one unnecessarily to suicide,” she said.

“This is why events like the Hawaiian Ride for Youth are so important.

“Not only does the ride raise important awareness in regional communities, but the funds raised ensure Youth Focus can continue to support young people throughout the State.”

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