WALKING from Bendigo to Melbourne next month, six local men hope to start a conversation within the community about mental health.
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On May 25, Wallis Collins, Ryan Walker, Jeremy Molloy, Jacob Greenwood, David Tuddenham and Tim McKern will set off on a three day trek, walking over 160km.
Mr McKern said the cause was something close to his heart having lost friends and family members.
"It is our mission to encourage and empower people to speak out and get the help they need," he said.
"We want to get out there and make a difference because if we can save a least one persons life then it's worthwhile."
Mr McKern said all proceeds will go towards two local mental health groups - Suicide Prevention Awareness Network and Let's Chat - Mental Health Awareness.
"SPAN are grateful for the donation which will go towards the Information Pocket cards we are currently working to produce with Headspace and local Secondary Schools," he said.
"It also goes towards funding for a support group for family and friends of young people accessing services in conjunction with Headspace.
"The money raised for Let's Chat will go towards buying a soup/coffee/food truck that we can tour around the region and spread the message on breaking down the stigma of Mental Health."
It is our mission to encourage and empower people to speak out and get the help they need
- Group member Tim McKern
Mr McKern said he was touched with the support the group has received.
"We have so much support from everyone in the community," he said
"The support has been enormous and the community has really jumped behind us.
"It's such a good feeling to see the support, the money is great but if we can get people talking and raise awareness that is different.
"It's a pretty special feeling but the sky is the limit at the moment."
A Go Fund Me page has been set up for anyone wishing to donate to the cause.
Alternatively there is the option to do a bank transfer into a designated bank account.
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