The world of 4WD often conjures images of muddy tracks, roaring engines, and nights spent around the campfire, sharing a laugh with mates while rugged up under the stars. It’s a community built on resilience, adventure, and helping each other out. In my seven years immersed in the 4WD industry, I've met some of the kindest, most selfless people out there. Time and time again, I've seen fellow enthusiasts jump in to help a stranger stuck on a beach, fix a broken-down vehicle, or lend a hand with no expectation of anything in return.
But behind the camaraderie, there’s a part of our community that often stays hidden: the silent struggles with mental health. For many, these battles stay beneath the surface, far from the tracks and trails we conquer so effortlessly. The reality is, 1 in 5 Australians will experience a mental health issue, and suicide remains the leading cause of death for people aged 15-45 in our country. These are sobering statistics, and I know they hit close to home for many of us. Our industry is big, our network is strong, and there are countless people out there who could use a mate – not just to pull them out of a bog, but to help pull them out of the dark.
That’s why we decided to do something about it. Together with Lucinda Harvey from Saving True Blues, we created "Wheel for Wellness" – an event aimed at breaking down barriers and digging deeper into what matters. Lucinda has been making an impact on countless lives with her initiatives, and teaming up felt like the perfect opportunity to reach even more people. We wanted to create a safe space where conversations could go beyond cars and tracks, where even the toughest among us could feel comfortable opening up about their struggles.
Building a Family Beyond the Bush
Wheel for Wellness was more than just an event; it was a gathering of people who understand the importance of having a mate to turn to when times get tough. We welcomed everyone – whether they came to make friends, meet like-minded people, or simply listen and find comfort in knowing they’re not alone. The weekend was about so much more than 4WD competitions and flex ramps (though we certainly had our fair share of fun). It was about coming together as a family, a big, open-hearted group who wouldn’t dream of leaving anyone behind.
We set out to create an environment where the bonds we share on the trails could grow deeper, where a community already known for its generosity could channel that spirit into meaningful conversations about mental health. The stories shared around the campfire this time were different – raw, honest, and heartfelt. They were stories of overcoming, stories of struggle, and stories of hope.
Conquering More Than Just Terrain
While Wheel for Wellness was about raising awareness and funds for mental health charities like Beyond Blue and the Black Dog Institute, it was also about shifting the culture within our community. The 4WD world is often seen as a place where toughness is valued above all, but we want to redefine what toughness looks like. It's not just about driving over challenging terrain or fixing your rig in the rain; it’s also about having the courage to talk about what’s going on beneath the surface. It’s about being there for your mates in more ways than one.
The funds raised through our charity raffle and the heartfelt conversations shared throughout the weekend were a testament to the power of community. By the end of the event, we saw not just a group of 4WD enthusiasts, but a family bound together by more than just a love for cars. We saw people who understood that asking for help doesn’t make you weak, that it takes real strength to confront the challenges in your mind just as you would a steep track.
Driving Forward Together
The event’s slogan, "Conquer the Terrain, Conquer the Stigma," became more than just words – it became a shared mission. We’re here to challenge the status quo in the 4WD world, showing that while we may be tough on the outside, we’re also capable of compassion, openness, and support for one another. We want to inspire more people in our community to talk about mental health and to create spaces where those conversations are encouraged.
Thank you to everyone who came out, shared their stories, and supported the cause. To Lucinda and the Saving True Blues crew, and all the brands that backed us – you helped make this event more impactful than we ever could have hoped for. Let’s keep the momentum going. Let’s continue to drive forward, not just over rugged terrain, but towards a future where no one in our community has to face their struggles alone.
Remember, this is one big family, and here, we don’t leave anyone behind.