Governor welcomes ‘Winston’ the steer to Government House for mental health awareness

‘Winston 13’, the 2020 Black Dog Ride Charity Auction Steer, was presented to its new owners at a special event at Government House on Wednesday.

The Black Dog Ride Charity Auction steer is donated every year by a Western Australian Cattle Farmer and is normally auctioned off at the Perth Royal Show, with all proceeds going to the Black Dog Ride charity.

Due to the cancellation of this year’s Royal Show, the Governor – as Patron of the Royal Agricultural society of WA – was pleased to be able to host an afternoon tea for the official handover of the steer from this year’s auction.

This year’s highest bidder was Harvest Road Group who have been the consecutive winners of the auction for many years now. Purchased at $11, 000, they are now the owners of ‘Winston 13’ – a 12 month old, 600 kilo purebred Charolais steer, generously donated by The Yost family from the Liberty Charolais and Shorthorn Stud Toodyay.

The Governor praised Peter and Judy Milton, the creators of the cattle auction concept for the Black Dog Ride charity, for their dedication to mental health awareness,

“This is a novel idea which helps to raises vital awareness and funds for mental health and the prevention of suicide in our community.

“Starting an open and honest conversation about mental health in any way that we can is always worth doing and important in reducing the stigma that unfortunately still surrounds this subject

“Peter and Judy’s ‘Winston Project’ has seen 13 steers  – all named after Winston Churchill who was said to be hounded by “the black dog of depression” – visit communities to provide an eye opening opportunity to talk to people about mental illness. Their commitment and generosity sets an inspiring example and has seen them raise thousands of dollars for Black Dog, encouraging West Australians to take proactive action for their mental wellness.”

At the event, Mrs Nicola Forrest, co-owner of Tattarang – one of Australia’s largest private investment groups, which includes Harvest Road Group and Harvey Beef – reiterated her support of Peter and Judy Milton,

“For many years now, we have proudly purchased the Black Dog Charity Steer at auction at the annual Perth Royal Show,” Mrs Forrest said.

“Due to COVID-19, the Show and the auction could not go ahead this year, but we thought it was vital to ensure the Black Dog Ride and this very worthy cause continued to be supported. With the anguish of bushfire, drought, and flood, coupled with the fallout of a pandemic, it’s never been more important for Australians to consider and take care of their mental health.

“The Black Dog Ride does wonderful work, particularly in rural communities to support people through life’s challenges and we are delighted to support a cause so close to our hearts. 

“In particular we thank Peter and Judy Milton for their hard work and dedication to this critically important cause.”

Mr David Thomas, President of the Royal Agricultural society of WA, said:

“Whilst there is no Perth Royal Show in 2020, we are thrilled the Governor, patron of the Royal Agricultural Society of WA, can host this year’s Black Dog Ride Charity Auction. Congratulations to Harvey Beef for winning this year’s auction.”

The Black Dog Ride is a charity which promotes mental health awareness and is particularly active in rural areas. The Black Dog Ride Cattle Auction was introduced through the collaboration of Peter and Judy Milton and the Black Dog Ride in order to raise funds and educate about the charity’s work.

Starting in 2009 by Steve Andrews – he decided to ride his motorcycle around Australia starting and finishing in Busselton to raise awareness for depression. Now 10 years on from the establishment of the foundation – the event is now a national phenomenon starting in more than 40 towns and cities across Australia.

• Lifeline on 13 11 14
• Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
• MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978
• Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467

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