BLUE car drivers rolled into Chidlow on Sunday to set the first national record for the most blue cars in one place and to support people with depression and anxiety.
Organisers Fran Berry and her husband Norm said of the 280 motorcycles and cars to turn up, 64 of the cars were blue and came in all shapes and sizes.
“We will set a record for the highest number of blue cars in one place because there isn’t one but we probably won’t hold it for very long, so we’ll have another attempt next year,” she said.
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READ NOW“It was a phenomenal day and we really appreciate everyone who drove to Chidlow on a hot day. Norm is still counting the dollars and we’re likely to have raised up to $8000 for beyondblue.”
Suicide is the leading cause of death for Australians aged between 15 and 44, with around 3000 people dying by suicide every year.
Bendigo Mundaring Community Bank partnered with the Chidlow Tavern organisers to provide a marquee to collect $20 blue car entry fees, as well as a “tap and go” donation facility.
The record attempt featured an event for cars of all makes, years and models to compete for awards including the best classic, best modern and the judges’ choice.
Other attractions at The Chidlow Tavern Blue Car Cruise and Blue Car Show and Shine day included live music from local bands Crippled Chaos and The Brett Hardwick Band, along with face painting for children.
Beyondblue ambassador Daniel Sharples and Swan Hills MLA Jessica Shaw were guest speakers at the event.
“Mental health issues impact on everyone in our community and beyondblue does such important work in promoting good mental health, protecting mental wellbeing and helping people recover if they become unwell,” Ms Shaw said.
“In my electorate of Swan Hills, youth suicide and mental health issues are well documented and I gave an absolute commitment to work alongside the community to establish a youth centre in Ellenbrook with mental health and youth suicide prevention services.”
Drone footage of the record attempt has been sent to record setting administrators for verification.
To contact beyondblue, call 1300 22 4636 or visit https://www.beyondblue.org.au.
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