After the 2020 Black Dog Ride was cancelled due to the pandemic for the first time in its 11-year history, the event will return to the Red Centre in 2021.
The BDR, which raises awareness and funds for mental health, was started by Steve Andrews after his solo ride around Australia in 2009.
Since then, most rides have been to the Red Centre with one ride around the country and even a ride across the USA.
For those who couldn’t make the epic annual trek, there were also one-day red events.
In its first decade, more than $3million has been raised by Black Dog Ride with funds passed on to organisations such as Lifeline, Mental Health First Aid Australia and the Black Dog Institute, as well as many many small community based volunteer groups and not-for-profits.
However, this year’s event in August was axed and registrations refunded in full.
Organisers say registrations are now open for the 2021 epic Red Centre ride.
“Of course, we want this ride to be all about mateship and fun, and of course, raising awareness of mental health and suicide prevention, as we stop and talk with people along the way,” they say.
The following ride groups are making the trek.
- NSW/ACT through South Australia, and up the centre to Alice Springs.
- WA through South Australia, and up the centre to Alice Springs.
- SA around SA and up the centre to Alice Springs.
- Vic/Tas through inland New South Wales and Queensland, then across to the Northern Territory and south to Alice Springs.
- The Qld/NT ride group will travel through inland Queensland, then across to the Northern Territory, picking up Territorians before heading south to Alice Springs.
To find out more CLICK HERE to visit the Red Centre 2021 website. 
From there you will also find links to the registration portal for each state/territory group.
Beyond 2021 the organisers say they have new destinations in mind for future years.
So the 2021 ride may be the last opportunity to travel with BDR to the Red Centre for some years to come.
Registrations are limited, so get in early.