I DO THIS
Motorcycles have been part of my life in one form or another for decades. I’m a motor painter and vehicle restorer by trade, so I’ve always had an appreciation for the mechanical, practical and creative side of motoring. More recently, that has brought me back to restoring and working on motorcycles, combining the skills of my original trade with a genuine love of bikes.
But for me, motorcycles are about much more than the machines. I’m actively involved in organising motorcycle rides and events, creating opportunities for riders to get out on the road, meet people and be part of a community.
A particularly important part of my motorcycling life is using that passion to raise awareness and support for mental health. Motorcycling has an extraordinary ability to bring people together and create conversations that might otherwise never happen. A ride can provide an excuse to catch up with a mate, meet someone new or simply get out of your own head for a while.
I’m involved in motorcycle activities that support mental-health awareness, fundraising and conversations around depression and suicide prevention, and I’m particularly interested in the role the riding community can play in looking out for one another. It doesn’t need to be complicated — sometimes simply creating the environment where someone feels comfortable talking can make a difference.
That combination of motorcycles, community and mental-health advocacy is something I want to keep developing through the rides and events I organise, the stories I help tell, and the projects I’m building around motorcycling.
For me, riding has never been only about getting from A to B. The motorcycle might be what brings people together, but the people are the reason for the ride.
