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Meaningful Moment

for mental health

Join a movement of people making meaningful moments to raise funds for a mentally healthier world.

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Choose your fundraiser

Take a look at our event categories for some inspiration and choose the best fit for your fundraiser. 

Sweat

Walk, run, cycle, or burpee your way to success.

Host

Grab your friends and family and host a fundraising event.

Remember

Honour a loved one and raise money in their memory.

Change

Cut your hair, shave your head, or grow a mullet.

Stream

Play your favourite game and raise money.

Celebrate

Instead of gifts ask for donations at your next special occasion.

Work

Donate a portion of sales to support Black Dog.

Resist

Give up a bad habit for a good cause and raise money along the way.

Choose

Raise money for Black Dog in your own creative way.

Choose your fundraiser

Take a look at our event categories for some inspiration and choose the best fit for your fundraiser. Choose something that gets you excited and that you can't wait to share with others.

Sweat

Walk, run, cycle, or burpee your way to success.

Host

Grab your friends and family and host a fundraising event.

Remember

Honour a loved one and raise money in their memory.

Change

Cut your hair, shave your head, or grow a mullet.

Stream

Play your favourite game and raise money.

Celebrate

Instead of gifts ask for donations at your next special occasion.

Work

Donate a portion of sales to support Black Dog.

Resist

Give up a bad habit for a good cause and raise money along the way.

Choose

Raise money for Black Dog in your own creative way.

How it works

Choose your fundraiser

Choose an event or activity that suits you.

Sign up

Register online and create your personalised fundraising page.

Spread the word

Start raising funds for a mentally healthier world.

Get Started Today

Meaningful Moments

You are a part of our inspiring community of fundraisers helping create a mentally healthier world for everyone. What has inspired your meaningful moment?

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Vibe Fitness Studios Geelong

At Vibe Fitness Studios Geelong, we believe fitness is about so much more than just workouts, it's about connection, community, and showing up for something bigger than ourselves. The inspiration behind our 24 Hour Workout came from a simple but powerful idea: that movement can be a vehicle for change. We wanted to create an event that not only challenged us physically but also gave back in a meaningful way. A full day of movement, shared with our community, felt like the perfect symbol of endurance, support, and unity. Many of our members, and team, have been personally impacted by the cause we chose to support, whether directly or through loved ones. So this was personal. It was emotional. And it was deeply motivating. We rallied together, hour after hour, to remind each other that when people unite around a shared purpose, incredible things happen. The energy in the room over those 24 hours was electric, and the support we felt from those who attended, donated, or simply cheered us on… it reminded us why we do what we do. We don’t just run a gym, we build a movement. And this was our way of moving for something that matters.

Avatar

Courtney Elliott

After I had my second baby, I was sick of tip toeing around how I was really feeling. Around the fact that I saw a psychologist and was on antidepressants. The more I shared, the more I realised that there were so many people around me experiencing the same things. A year ago when I found myself struggling to get out of bed and do simple things like brush my hair, prepare meals or shower. A lot of the time I felt numb. Or my thoughts would be consumed with endless ways that I could end my life. I would find myself googling. It felt like it would never end. It felt like the best way to make it stop was to end my life. After numerous bouts of depressive episodes like this where I would spend days on end in bed, my husband took me to ED. In 2024 I had 3 psych ward admissions. It has been and still is a long road to recovery. Every day I need to make choices that support my mental health. For me and for my husband and two children. I choose life. I choose being here to watch my kids grow up and hold my husband's wrinkly hand. I want that. And I want that for everyone else who experiences the darkest of thoughts. I want people to feel heard and seen. I want people to know it can get better. I am fundraising because the world is better with you in it.

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Wayne knott

Looking back I have always struggled with some form of depression. Like most young South African males in the early 1980s, I completed military service. Many of us were only 17 or 18 years old, and we saw and did things no young man should. Looking back, I experienced frequent episodes of depression and anxiety, and over the years, I lost many friends who took their own lives. A few years ago, as I began slowing down and transitioning into retirement, episodes of hopelessness and anxiety became even more frequent. Work, which had always given me a sense of purpose, was suddenly gone. Fortunately, I discovered Ironman triathlon, and it became a transformative outlet for me. The physical challenge is incredible, and being part of a core group of friends I interact with daily has provided a much-needed space to communicate and share. Recently, a lifelong friend took his own life, which had a profound impact on me and brought back memories of my own darkest times. It was then I decided that for my next Ironman—on my 60th birthday—I would fundraise for a cause that helps people struggling with similar challenges.

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Meaningful Moments

Mental illness doesn’t discriminate – it affects us all. It’s so important to share our experiences, have vital conversations and break down the stigma of mental illness.

You’re invited to share your experiences, stories and hopes for a mentally healthier world.

Avatar

Vibe Fitness Studios Geelong

At Vibe Fitness Studios Geelong, we believe fitness is about so much more than just workouts, it's about connection, community, and showing up for something bigger than ourselves. The inspiration behind our 24 Hour Workout came from a simple but powerful idea: that movement can be a vehicle for change. We wanted to create an event that not only challenged us physically but also gave back in a meaningful way. A full day of movement, shared with our community, felt like the perfect symbol of endurance, support, and unity. Many of our members, and team, have been personally impacted by the cause we chose to support, whether directly or through loved ones. So this was personal. It was emotional. And it was deeply motivating. We rallied together, hour after hour, to remind each other that when people unite around a shared purpose, incredible things happen. The energy in the room over those 24 hours was electric, and the support we felt from those who attended, donated, or simply cheered us on… it reminded us why we do what we do. We don’t just run a gym, we build a movement. And this was our way of moving for something that matters.

Avatar

Courtney Elliott

After I had my second baby, I was sick of tip toeing around how I was really feeling. Around the fact that I saw a psychologist and was on antidepressants. The more I shared, the more I realised that there were so many people around me experiencing the same things. A year ago when I found myself struggling to get out of bed and do simple things like brush my hair, prepare meals or shower. A lot of the time I felt numb. Or my thoughts would be consumed with endless ways that I could end my life. I would find myself googling. It felt like it would never end. It felt like the best way to make it stop was to end my life. After numerous bouts of depressive episodes like this where I would spend days on end in bed, my husband took me to ED. In 2024 I had 3 psych ward admissions. It has been and still is a long road to recovery. Every day I need to make choices that support my mental health. For me and for my husband and two children. I choose life. I choose being here to watch my kids grow up and hold my husband's wrinkly hand. I want that. And I want that for everyone else who experiences the darkest of thoughts. I want people to feel heard and seen. I want people to know it can get better. I am fundraising because the world is better with you in it.

Avatar

Wayne knott

Looking back I have always struggled with some form of depression. Like most young South African males in the early 1980s, I completed military service. Many of us were only 17 or 18 years old, and we saw and did things no young man should. Looking back, I experienced frequent episodes of depression and anxiety, and over the years, I lost many friends who took their own lives. A few years ago, as I began slowing down and transitioning into retirement, episodes of hopelessness and anxiety became even more frequent. Work, which had always given me a sense of purpose, was suddenly gone. Fortunately, I discovered Ironman triathlon, and it became a transformative outlet for me. The physical challenge is incredible, and being part of a core group of friends I interact with daily has provided a much-needed space to communicate and share. Recently, a lifelong friend took his own life, which had a profound impact on me and brought back memories of my own darkest times. It was then I decided that for my next Ironman—on my 60th birthday—I would fundraise for a cause that helps people struggling with similar challenges.

Avatar

Sandii Lee

Hi All.. I've Decided To Take Part ln This Fund Raising Event For Mental illness Due To Seeing Too Many People Over My Lifetime Of 60yrs Suffer, Turn To Drugs, Alcohol & Suicide, Even ln My Own Family Members Dating Back Years Ago.. Depression, Drug Over Doses, Alcoholism etc.. I Believe As Time Goes On Mental lssues Are Getting Much Worse.. Maybe Years Ago Depression Etc Wasn't Spoken About But Today We Hear And See Soo Much More.. If Raising Funds For This Organisation Can Help People Suffering ln Any Way That's Fantastic And Well Worth Taking Part.. Cheers. Sandii

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Sharon Yates

My family has been directly affected by mental illness for most of my life. I’ve watched my mother struggle when I was a kid. Then after being abused and beaten by my older brothers while younger then by my partner for years, I found myself raising 4 children alone and struggling with depression. I’ve had a step commit suicide and watch my daughter grieve after her best friend also committed suicide when they were 16. I have a daughter with OCD and anxiety issues, another that also suffers with anxiety issue, and is clinically depressed too. So raising money for mental health awareness was a no brainer for me. I could keep going about the issues in our family but there wouldn’t be enough room on the wall. I’m only a little market stall holder but if I can make a difference for even just 1 person I’m happy. Because I went through domestic violence as well I am currently fundraising for both causes. They are both linked.

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Darren Jolly

My mental health decline started several years ago when my 13 year AFL football career ended without warning. The chance to thank the people who helped me achieve success, was taken away from me. I underestimated the transition from club life to normal life and I found myself floating through life with no real direction. Compile that with an unexpected brain operation, financial issues and toxic marriage, everything came to a head and I fell into a dark hole mentally. I couldn't see a way out. I would often sit in my car at night alone crying not knowing what to do. How to fix things. I felt trapped in my thoughts and couldn't see a way out. I sadly tried to end my life on two occasions because I thought it was the only way to fix things. I never told anyone about how I was feeling. For most part of my life, I believed being vulnerable as a man and talking about your feelings was a sign of weakness. I never talked to anyone about how I was feeling, what I was struggling with, and the dark thoughts I was having. The lightbulb moment came to me while I admitted myself into a mental health facility. I slowly started to take control of my life and made tough decisions to get in back in the direction I wanted it to. I talked to professionals, I talked to my family and friends, I prioritised my health, my sessions with my psychologist and I learned coping strategies to deal with my thoughts. I decided to organise a golf day to raise money for Black Dog Institute because I'm now in a position mentally to help others who are struggling. I have a goal of raising $50k for Black Dog as I know the money I raise for them will help fellow Australians who can't see their way out of their mess. I love playing golf and I use the time I play as a mental release. So what better way to raise money than to have a fun, relaxed golf day with people who want to support me and my fundraising goal also.

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Hsing Yun Education Foundation

We share a deep commitment to improving mental health outcomes, a mission that resonates with the work of the Black Dog Institute. This year, we celebrated the 30th anniversary of the Buddha's Birthday Festival with a VegRun (Fun Run) event in Darling Harbour, and wanted to support a charity that prioritises our shared values of health and well-being and makes a significant contribution to mental health awareness and support Our goal was to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and the groundbreaking work of the Black Dog Institute. We believe that by highlighting Black Dog Institute's initiatives and resources, we can inspire our community to engage more deeply with mental health issues and support.

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Zac Chapman

Setting off in January this year, I set out to walk solo from Melbourne to Perth to raise awareness for men's mental health and Black Dog Institute. After experiencing my own struggles with mental illness and losing my best mate to suicide two years ago, I knew I wanted to get out there and share the important message that its okay not to be okay, this walk was as much for me as it was for connecting with others across my travels and sharing this important message. Along my journey, I've met many wonderful people who have welcomed me with open arms, as I stop and rest/recover in their towns. Pictured here is a new mate for life, Stano, who I met in Port Augusta, South Australia. I have now raised over $2100 for Black Dog Institute and walked over 1050km. This is a cause close to my heart and I am proud of the impact I have made in the lives of people I've met along the way and also the impact my fundraising will make in the lives that need it the most.

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Amanda Stelcova - @Doors_Of_Sydney

I started walking the streets of our beautiful Sydney taking photos of the colourful old houses I love, as I suffer from bipolar disorder as well as a disabling chronic illness, & my doctors wanted me to go walking on days when I was well. So in 2019 I came up with the idea to go on walks in search of the most wonderful old doors and houses of Sydney, & my Instagram page @doors_of_sydney was born! After receiving many inquiries about buying prints of my photos, I decided to create a fundraiser for Black Dog Institute. Whereby I would cover the costs of printing, packing and shipping the prints to my wonderful supporters and the remaining proceeds per print would go directly to Black Dog Institute. Through this fundraiser, and the support of my amazing instagram community, we have come together to raise $5,300 for Black Dog Institute and mental health research.

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Matt Walker

For a period of time, I considered myself weak and worthless. 2023 was one of the hardest years of my life. Dealing with the loss of a friend, alcoholism and lack of direction in life. I’ve had friends who I consider brothers saying they don’t want to go on. It’s easy to feel lonely and rudderless throughout your mid twenties. I’m running on behalf of my brothers and sisters who struggle everyday. Additionally, I’ll be going sober over this 80 day period. Addiction is a common theme that ties in to depression and suicidal tendencies as a coping mechanism and requires much needed awareness. “It ain’t weak to speak”

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Moments in the making

Some of the creative ways our supporters are raising funds for mental health and making their own meaningful moments.

Let's Get Mental 2023

By Kelly Brown

Raised so far:

$53

Fan Shirt Friday

By Oakley Abela

Raised so far:

$23

George Bass Marathon - 50th Anniversary - Black Dog Fundraising & Mental Health Awareness.

By Johanna Perry

Raised so far:

$79

Mannix College Hair For Mental Health

By Noel Reid

Raised so far:

$294

Search for a Fundraiser

Or donate directly to Black Dog Institute

"Every single Community Fundraiser is inspired by the Institute's mantra: Science. Compassion. Action. But there is another word that can be added, it is LOVE.

Love is the universal inspiration connecting all of us and our stories. Fundraising for Black Dog Institute is deeply personal. Your humanity is our humanity. Long may it be so."

Peter Joseph, Chairman

Get started today

Questions?

The Black Dog Institute fundraising team are here to help. Feel free to email us at fundraising@blackdog.org.au