More than 200 people were expected to take part in the National Black Dog Ride, but poor weather saw about 25 riders participate, ride coordinator Betty Parssey said. 

“The fact that there were about 200 less than we expected doesn’t matter, it will still get the conversation going and get people aware of mental health issues,” she said. 

“More and more people are becoming aware of suicide and depression, so to be able to help people learn how to look out for the signs and encouraging people to come and talk about it is really important.” 

Some motorcyclists were still happy to donate their registration fee to Lifeline despite not taking part in the ride. 

Although the weather stayed clear for the duration of the ride, which started in Campbell Town and finished on the East Coast, riders still took care on the roads, Ms Parssey said.