Hawaiian Ride for Youth cyclists share hearts and souls with Narrogin Senior High School students

Cyclists on the annual Hawaiian Ride for Youth whose lives have been touched by mental illness visited the Wheatbelt South last week to share stories with high school students on their experiences. The charity ride, in its 22nd year, had 49 first-time riders take part in the challenge that saw 140 cyclists form three pelotons to ride from Albany to Perth raising awareness and funds for youth mental health. Some of the riders spoke at school assemblies along the way and in Narrogin on Thursday former NSHS student Barry Elmslie talked about the importance of communication and connection. “I had what you’d call a second mum who lived a few doors down that I would go and talk to as a confidante,” he said, recalling his youth. “We didn’t have hardly any mental health knowledge back then . . . my main message is there’s lots of things for mental health, exercise, sleeping well, nutrition, but having somebody in your support network of people you can go to, whether it be your parents, a family friend or a teacher, you need an adult at this age . . . because your friends haven’t quite got the capabilities to know how to help you.” On Wednesday a strong headwind between Gnowangerup and Katanning proved challenging and cyclist Ella Gibson was driven to Katanning Senior High School to ensure her message was heard before the final bell. “I spoke last year in Wagin and I spoke to a big group of adults at a fundraising lunch we did back in November, two very different speeches but I really love it,” she said. “Like I said yesterday in my speech I think that if there’s one kid that I can get through to and almost role model that things can get better and that you can make something of your life that’s enough right, that’s my job done.” Youth Focus chief executive Derry Simpson said the riders put in a remarkable effort. “It’s just incredible, these guys give up so much of their time, they’re all volunteers, so are the support crew,” she said. “They give up a week of work, they fund raise for six months of the year before they even hop on their bikes . . . it’s a huge commitment and to do that year on year — they really care about the cause, so we are obviously incredibly grateful and so are the young people.” Young people in need of support can call Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 or visit the Kids Helpline website to access a range of resources.