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Benny's Coast Run

Chasing down the Black Dog all the way up the East Coast

They say to do the things you enjoy in life.  And for me, every second on two wheels is time well spent.

I'm riding the East Coast of Australia.  Whilst taking in some of the extraordinary beauty that this country has to offer, I'll be talking about my Mental Health Journey.  

And by doing this, I'm hoping to raise awareness and some funds for those that help us in our darkest times of need.

Hence, I am standing up to join Team Black Dog to turn ground breaking research into life saving action.

Mental illness affects 1 in 5 Australians every year, with the most common being depression and anxiety. Mental illness doesn’t discriminate. It affects people from all walks of life — individuals, families, workplaces and communities.


Please Help Me
Reach My Goal

Raised

$19,058

My Goal

$13,000

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My Updates

Xenia

Wednesday 8th Jun

Highlight Reel

Tuesday 7th Jun

Day 18: Airlie Beach to Townsville

Tuesday 7th Jun
Day 18: Airlie Beach to Townsville
.
END OF THE LINE
.
5228kms
.
$14,838 for @blackdoginst 
.
@kenoath.clothing.co T-Shirt Sales continue to dominate the market 😁🤘💎
.
After an incredible evening with Steve and The Mental Health Crew, I decided to harass the innocents of Airlie Beach in search of a sexy instagram pic
.
A coffee for me and 98 Octane for Casey Jones, we shot out of town like a bullet from a gun
.
Mist hung low on the gorgeous lush green hills surrounding the tropical paradise
.
overcast, mid 20's and humid, my personal favourite weather, I smirked like a Madman thru the sweeping bends of the Cane Field  Corridors
.
Bumping into Ex Army Boys in Ayr, together with a Chicken and Avocado Sanga, I punch out the last hour of my ride
.
Nostalgia thick in the air, I sweep into Townsville, sweaty, dirty and victorious 
.
I fall into the arms of my Red Haired FNQ Brother and feel completely at ease
.
We check the Odometer and laugh
.
It's worth it
.
Every moment Questioning my sanity
.
Every moment of cold fingers
.
Every moment of wet, aching feet
.
Every near miss
.
It's worth it to know that, walking on the shoulders of all you amazing humans that supported and donated to this cause, it is all for those in need
.
This is a thank you to you all
.
I am only the conduit between you and Black Dog, I merely created a path for you, you did this, remember that
.
Pete Black and I squeezed in some special time which warmed my heart
.
Tomorrow is a chance to see my Brothers before returning to my loves
.
Money has no value if it can't save a life
.
.
.
#kenoath #bennyscoastrun #blackdog #blackdoginstitute @kenoath #beach #beachside #beachfront #coast #ocean #highway #hd #harley #HarleyDavidson #sportster #sportster1200 #nightster #mentalhealth @blackdoginst #livetoride #townsville @throttledownunder @blackdoginst #Australia #Australian  #kenoathclothingco #motorcycle #motorcyclelife #motorbikes 
#depression #anxiety #lockington #echuca #bamawm

Day 17: Mackay to Airlie Beach

Tuesday 7th Jun
Day 17: Mackay to Airlie Beach
.
After an amazing evening with @biggaz327 and his beautiful family, we ventured into town and checked out the Cars for Kids Show
.
Awesome cars, great people.
.
I say goodbye to a true gentleman and Saint and hit the Blacktop, back to Ripping Thru the Cane like a Hairy Tiprat from Hell
.
Just Mind Blowing
.
The scenery, the weather, Christ, just magical
.
Listen to Helping Hand by The Screaming Jets, man, this is a soundtrack for this trip
.
Some of the most amazing sites I have seen in my short life 
.
Into Airlie, honestly trying to remember when I was treated like a Celebrity
.
Steve and the Airlie Beach Boys, Luke, Gaz, Dylan, Lizard, Guido, put on a show!!!!!! WOW!!!!!
.
Face hurts from laughing, meet some extraordinary humans, had some super deep Convos
.
Then these dude's, ABS Automotive Centre - Full Mental Health, looked me in the eyes and threw Money at me for Black Dog
.
Diamonds, all of them, absolute Gems
.
Excited to reunite and hang out
.
All for @blackdoginst 
.
Made possible by @kenoath.clothing.co 
.

Day 16: Yeppon to Mackay

Tuesday 7th Jun
Day 16: Yeppon to Mackay
.
I spent the evening with my old apprentice @lukey481 his beautiful wife @mrskatherinedwilson and my new bestie Levi
.
It was just amazing to have that time with them all and I am so grateful for their hospitality 
.
The Rain God's hadn't quite finished with me, so coffee, fuel and a wet morning for the first couple of hours.
.
Rounded up some Army Convoys and giggled about my former life
.
Followed my curious nose and found some beautiful beaches and The Flaggy Rock Cafe (best burgers ever)
.
The Sun was out, every now and again the road was ok and I found myself with a 30 foot Smirk Ripping thru the Cane like a Madman
.
I arrived at the Field of Dreams, @biggaz327 and his lovely wife live in the middle of a Cane Field.  First time we had actually met face to face.  I was charmed beyond belief and treated like a King.  We laughed and shared and Talked late into the Night and I am so grateful to have met such amazing humans.
.
The Competition to Win a Custom Shirt is still on
.
And because you been such good people, here is the Video @bensmider has made for this trip, its bloody Killer
.
https://youtu.be/EZ7R_6FS62g
.
All for @blackdoginst 
.
All made possible by @kenoath.clothing.co 
.

The Two Wolves

Saturday 4th Jun

Day 15: Agnes Water to Yeppon

Saturday 4th Jun
Day 15: Agnes Water to Yeppon
.
The Boomers woke me up at 5:30am with Talk Back Radio and Hair Dryers, so what better time to make a video about The Two Wolves
.
Cracking weather today, open face helmet, short shelves and off we go
.
Plenty of Roadworks and fairly average roads, totally offset by some magical little beaches and beautiful towns
.
Rockhampton is still the busy centre on this part of QLD and I did my best to cut through it and hit the sand
.
So much love and joy hanging out with @lukey481 Cath and Levi
.
We did the Yeppon Beach thing and it's gunna be hard work leaving here tomorrow because of it
.
It's funny not seeing a human for 12 years and still having the same affection for them, but now as a Man with a Family, proud is an understatement
.
so many amazing messages again today, thank you to everyone 
.
Over the $13k Mark and just so pleased to be able to support @blackdoginst in this way
.
All made possible by @kenoath.clothing.co 
.
feeling blessed 
.
.
.
#kenoath #bennyscoastrun #blackdog #blackdoginstitute kenoath #beach #beachside #beachfront #coast #ocean #highway #hd #harley #HarleyDavidson #sportster #sportster1200 #nightster #mentalhealth @blackdoginst #livetoride @throttledownunder @blackdoginst #Australia #Australian #Oz #kenoathclothingco #motorcycle #motorcyclelife #motorbikes 
#depression #anxiety #lockington #echuca #bamawm

Day 14: Hervey Bay to Agnes Waters

Thursday 2nd Jun
Day 14: Hervey Bay to Agnes Waters
.
Smiling like an Idiot
.
Flew back into Hervey Bay yesterday after a week with the Kiddos
.
Monkey Man @craigmonky and Kylie rolled out the Red Carpet, again
.
Not only did the Tiprat Service the Bike, but he detailed to the point where I've never seen Casey Jones so freakin shiney!!!
.
The weather (finally) turned into a beautiful QLD winter, so much so that I was back to open face helmet after lunch and stripping off like they were throwing me fifties 
.
Stopped in and did the tour of @bundabergrum Distillery and thoroughly enjoyed the experience, highly recommended as a part of our culture and history. The Ladies even had some top shelf products that would convert the most stoic Whiskey Drinkers
.
@gntlmn_club totally ambushed me with a sticker set on the bike when I got back to the car park.  The Mad Dogs, give them a follow!!!!
.
Fish and Chips and then boom, cutting through the Cane Fields like a Bat Outta Hell
.
Into sleepy Agnes Waters / 1770
.
Can't say that a hairy tiprat on a short piped bike is making heaps of friends with the octogenarians,  but man, I'm being charming AF
.
Really good headspace at the moment as this whole journey has become something bigger than I could have ever anticipated 
.
Had a great conversation with all my all my loved ones and a really great convo with @miss.throttle and Tutty which reaffirmed my strength and belief in what I am doing 
.
over the $12k mark for @blackdoginst 
.
All made possible by @kenoath.clothing.co 
.
.
.
#kenoath #bennyscoastrun #blackdog #blackdoginstitute kenoath #beach #beachside #beachfront #coast #ocean #highway #hd #harley #HarleyDavidson #sportster #sportster1200 #nightster #mentalhealth @blackdoginst #livetoride #dayforit @throttledownunder @blackdoginst #Australia #Australian #Oz #Ozzie #kenoathclothingco #motorcycle #motorcyclelife #motorbikes 
#depression #anxiety

A Message Of Thanks - Youtube

Tuesday 31st May

A Message Of Thanks

Tuesday 31st May

A Message of Thanks
.
https://youtu.be/U2pMDnSYRys
.
Back on the Road tomorrow and just wanted to say thank you to all the amazing people that have helped me on this journey and inspired bravery for this cause
.
A few extra pics of other things in life right now which have my gratitude
.
@kenoath.clothing.co for their amazingly generous support
.
@craigmyers1974 for a place to stay, warm company and service and clean of Casey Jones
.
@pageytrain for his friendship
.
@throttledownunder for his time and good nature
.
@kurto26s for being a mad dog
.
@aimee.c.b and @natty.burto for being just freaking beautiful humans
.
@jimmy_b007 for being my boy!!!
.
@brett_car035 for messages and support
.
@diamondheadralph for having the best music taste
.
my Children for their love
.
my Mum, well for pretty much everything
.
@neishanoofromkalamazoo for unwavering support for all my crazy ideas
.
@biggaz327 for so so so so much
.
Leigh Convey for always checking in to make sure I'm off the road at the end of the day, bike riders know, Callsign Mother Hen and so very much appreciated Brother
.
Looking forward to this last leg, hoping to punch that $13k Mark!!!
.
Big Love and Peace to everyone who has made this possible
.
#kenoath #bennyscoastrun #blackdog #blackdoginstitute @kenoath #beach #beachside #beachfront #coast #ocean #highway #hd #harley #HarleyDavidson #sportster #sportster1200 #nightster #mentalhealth @blackdoginst #livetoride #dayforit @throttledownunder @blackdoginst #Australia #Australian #Oz #Ozzie #kenoathclothingco #motorcycle #motorcyclelife #motorbikes
#depression #anxiety #lockington

Battle on the Black Top

Wednesday 25th May
I spend my days in battle

I fuel a machine that makes 100 Horsepower and only weighs 230kg
I get on the road with only my kevlar and wits I contend with rain and trucks and P Plate drivers and Lorna Jane Zombies in Landcruisers
Super short pipes
Black Bike
Leathers and Cuban Healed boots
I ride aggressively
I protect my lane
I make it overtly obvious of where I am and what my intentions are
I force those sleepy drones in those cars to pay attention
I do this because my kids deserve a father
I move thru towns and marvel at the architecture
I move thru the country and mediate on trees so tall they touch the heavens
Gorgeous beaches
Bluest of waters
Greens of every shade
Smells filling my nostrils
Organic to my environment
Every 150kms, I dismount, assess and fuel
I absolutely wind the charm up to 11 with every service station attendant
I deliberately disarm misconceived preconceptions
I make them smile at least, sometimes a laugh
I do this because I have opened a doorway thru the Universe and my Karma builds from happy souls
After 6 - 8 hours of this routine, I am so graciously and warmly embraced by my people
Happy that I am safe and proud of my efforts
Food tastes like I haven't eaten for a year
Beer tastes like a lifetime in the desert
I fall asleep smiling and so very keen to do it all over again
And I would
The entire country tens of thousands of dollars to help those suffering
Just doing battle on that bike every day

A place of peace and purpose

A country boy with beach sand on his boots

Wednesday 25th May
a country boy with beach sand on his boots

2200 miles of Dirt and Blue Roads
3 States
14 days
Secret beaches and private coves
traffic
And rain, so much God damn rain
Fish and Chips
High Octane Fuel
Wet and Cold and Questioning
25 Weight Oil and Airports
Unpack, pack, unpack, pack
The same coffee made 28 different ways
Old friends and New
Loves and Kin
A Universe revealing herself
Exploration inner and outer
Meaning and peace at Furious speeds
Laughter and Tears
Outpouring of emotions by people from long ago

One last leg
One final push
One last inhalation for maximum effort

The only constant is change

A sunburnt, drowned country on two wheels

Day 13: Sunny Coast to Hervey Bay

Wednesday 25th May
Day 13: Sunny Coast to Hervey Bay
.
Lucky 13
.
Couldn't sleep this morning, woke early and talked myself into making a video about my PTSD
.
Once I got over myself, I headed out into the rain and grabbed motion lotion and caffeine
.
Roads are in good condition, even if they are wet
.
So many amazing phone calls and messages of support today, truly over whelming
.
Dropped into Noosa Heads
.
Powered the back roads to Rainbow Beach
.
@bigsheltz and I shared an amazing lunch and caught for the first time in 11 years
.
Fell in love with this place real quick
.
Sun came out, I swapped helmets and gloves
.
Had some interesting conversations with myself as I flew along the black top 
.
Found a few interesting water crossings
.
Onto Hervey Bay and into the warm embrace of the Monkey  House
.
Myers and I worked together years ago at 1 RAR and I always find myself with tears running down my face as my cheeks hurt from laughing, just the best.
.
Today has been one of the most incredibly liberating days of my life and I am indebted to you all your love
.
Home to my kids tomorrow and I can't hardly wait
.
All made possible by the unwavering @kenoath.clothing.co 
.
all for @blackdoginst 
.
My PTSD Video
https://youtu.be/L76-6XM8Er0
.

Talking about my PTSD

Wednesday 25th May
https://youtu.be/L76-6XM8Er0

Day 12: Brisbane to Sunny Coast

Wednesday 25th May
Day 12: Brisbane to Sunshine Coast
.
After such an amazing evening with Jen and Buzz, I woke up and was greeted with what can only be described as maybe the greatest breakfast wrap in the history of food.
.
The rain came in, which was good, because I would hate to be spoilt now.
.
I had a coffee with the absolutely enchanting Dee of @kenoath.clothing.co  We spoke about some very broad and ranging topics that had me still thinking hours later and I could be more thankful for her time.
.
Off to Redcliffe for a quick look around, wind was roaring in from the East.
.
I turned North and headed for the Sunny Coast (which apparantly due to weather is called the Sometimes Coast).
.
On the Highway the rain came in, hard, real hard.  And I found myself laughing and laughing.  It was funny because it has just become par for the course now.  I was laughing because there isn't anywhere or anything I'd rather be doing.  I was laughing because the Universe was telling me that this journey, physical and spiritual, is meant to be about growth and there is no growth without pain.  And if 1 humans life is improved by this trip, then it's all worth it.
.
Finally arrived at @farrowscustoms like a wet shaggy dog and was treated to the warmest reception.  Man, what a bunch of cool cats.
.
We spent the afternoon working on the Sporty (which was desperately needed), talking smack and laughing. @diamondheadralph worked on my bike the whole time and i was so impressed his skill set. I was given stickers and t-shirt by the grace of Bryan, who is a bloody diamond. I sat on a Harley that was ridden by Seth Enslow and was the first HD back flipped and then ridden in Finke.  So many Grouse bikes in one shed.
.
Ralph and I spent the evening talking cars, bikes, music, beer, food.
. 
Could not be more grateful for this day.
.

Day 11: Gold Coast to Brisbane

Monday 23rd May
Day 11:  Brisbane to Gold Coast
.
After an amazingly funny night with @jimmy_b007 and Ally Cat I woke to more decent rain landing on the Gold Coast
.
First stop of the Day was the Sanctory Cove Boat Show to see Diamond Des of @kenoath.clothing.co fame and fortune
.
I managed to charm my way past QLD Police and Traffic Wardens dressed as a Downed Rat
.
Hung out with the Legend himself, my Brother
.
Into the rain and off to the Muesum of Modern Art to hang out with the one and only Jeff Rowe
.
There is never enough time to fill each other's ears with words of yarns, philosophy and ideals
.
We parted as brothers do
.
Off to the Kelly residence 
.
Such giving people, friends and former employers, time was too short, always is
.
Finally get to spend the evening with Jen and Buzz.  Amazing food and laughs, such beautiful hosts
.
Ken Oath has released a White Shirt for the Coast Run, including a Ladies Tee!!!!!
.
Over $10k for Black Dog!!!!!!
.
a few more days of this, pretty sure I'll grow webbed feet and gills 😁🤘

Day 10: Evans Head to Gold Coast

Saturday 21st May
Day 10: Evans Head to Gold Coast
.
Overcast, wind, rain, election.
.
Weather God's aren't kind, Bike keeps breaking, however like Al Bennett said, if I ride 5000kms in the rain, break the bike and question my existence and it saves just one life, then it's worth it
.
Lennox and North was just gorgeous, the coast line up here needs a good 5 years to properly explore 
.
such an amazing experience to travel this country on two wheel during the day and then be hosted by my loves, family and friends in the evening, I am blessed.
.
After shooting for $1600, I have surpassed $10k
.
And I won't stop banging my drum until I reach Townsville #sorrynotsorry
.
I cannot be more thankful to everyone that donated, bought a shirt or rang / messaged support 
.
It means the world, more than you'll ever know
.
Bris Vegas Tomorrow!!!!
.
All made possible by Diamond Des @kenoath.clothing.co
.
all for @blackdoginst

Day 9: Port Macquarie to Evans Head

Saturday 21st May
Day 9: Port Macquarie to Evans Head
.
After a beautiful evening with the Cousins, I woke early (with the assistance of young Lewis). And started packing for the day
.
More shit broken on the bike.
.
Said farewells and grabbed a coffee and caught up with the Amazing Al and Ash Bennett.
.
Not only are these two passionate and renowned in the Car Scene, but they are just the best people.
.
I could have spent all day listening to them tell stories.  However we did some repairs and jumped back on the road.
.
Rain and more rain.
.
South West Rocks was amazing as was the Light House.
.
Coffs Harbour was great and soooooo good to see James and have a chat.
.
More Rain and miss calculated my fuel.
.
Little Jerry saved the day for myself and the HMAS Casey Jones.
.
Onto Evans and a gorgeous evening with some seafood made me forget about all those troubles throughout the day.
.
Big shout out to Ryan for pushing me OVER $10k for Black Dog!!!!!!! WOW!!!!!!!

Day 8: Newcastle to Port Macquarie

Saturday 21st May
Day 8: Newcastle to Port Macquarie 
.
Flew back into Newcastle from Melbourne. Ripper Uber Driver who does Postie Bike Rallies.  Caught up with GT, helped him out around the house.  Would have loved to have stayed and played with the Commodore, but alas, not this time.
.
Shot down the road to catch @kurto26s and @shawballs for some laughs with dinner
.
Packing up this morning, Sissy Bar was broken, off to @prostreet.automotive__  and some welding repairs, boys looked after me waaaay too well
.
Took off and found the Ocean again.
.
Some cracking spots along the coast in this part of the world, complimented by some great road to lean into.
.
After a cool start to the morning, the weather really turned it on today.  The huge rainfalls last week are still very obvious around the countryside, but didn't strike anything Casey Jones and I couldn't handle.
.
Between Hawks Nest and Seal Rocks was an amazing view and was hard not to stay there all day.
.
Made a bee line late in the day to get the the Cousins House in Port  Macquarie.
.
Got to share an amazing meal and have story time with the Kids
. 
We took a small moment to reflect and appreciate the time that had past since we all last hung out and agreed more time together is needed.
.
Nothing like being around your own Blood to feel relaxed yet rejuvenated
.
Almost at $10k for @blackdoginst 
.
Some new and very cool things on the horizon from the Man of Mayhem @kenoath.clothing.co 
.
Massive thank you to you all for your support, could not have done this without you all
.

Day 7: Sydney to Newcastle

Wednesday 11th May
Day 7: Sydney to Newcastle
.
After spending the night with Ross and Misty @pageytrain in Penrith, my voice is cracked from the Karaoke competition and my face hurts from laughing
.
I leave Penrifff and head towards Gosford
.
Grinning most of the way as I feel really good having spent the evening in such amazing company
.
Ross and I have been the best of mates for over 20 years and I was honoured to be a Flower Girl when he married the Beautiful Misty (I'll find that photo)
.
We spoke for over 2 hours on his podcast, hopefully people get a giggle, we talked bulk smack
.
the weather properly turned to shit again
.
However, amazing food and company at Terrigal Beach with @dychea made all the difference
.
Al is ex Pommy Army Mechanic so in the short time we have known each other, we have become staunchly close
.
battled thru the elements, drove thru water over halfway up the wheel to finally get to GT in Newcastle
.
A massive supporter of me and an amazing friend, GT is someone that has always resonated with me and couldn't be more grateful for his hospitality 
.
So happy to finally be dry and laughing 
.
Please check out the Throttle down under podcast, Rob is brilliant at what he does.
.
https://youtu.be/ci20kxa4SWU
.
Please check out and subscribe to Pagey Train, Ross is such great fun to be around 
.
on our way to raising $8500 for Black Dog Institute!!!!!!
.
All this being possible with the enigmatic @kenoath.clothing.co 
.
I cannot begin to explain how healthy my own mental health is at the moment for being around such good humans
.
having said that, my back hurts from anxiety of riding in poor weather combined with my PTSD
.
nothing that some stretching, CBD Oil and good mental stimulation cannot remedy
.
Thank you so much to everyone for their support, it honestly means alot
.

Day 6: Sydney

Tuesday 10th May
Day 6: Sydney
.
New Friends and Old
.
Weather was nothing short of appalling
.
Nevertheless, you good people have contributed to the cause, therefore I am obligated to deliver
.
Leaving the warm beautiful embrace of the Burton's of Camden, I headed towards the city and found Rob of @throttledownunder 
.
Rob is one of the most genuine, authentic, honest and charming humans I have ever met
.
It was an absolute pleasure to hang out and talk, cannot be more grateful for his time
.
Off to Bondi, because I said I would
.
Raining and horrible, I sat and ate fish and chips and watched the Pacific Ocean do it it's thing
.
Then to Penrith
.
Ross I have known for 21 years
.
We did a podcast on @pageytrain 
.
Man, laugh and talk, it was amazing just to hang out
.
Improtu Karaoke tonight, wish me luck
.
Gunna have to set a higher target as you amazing people have exceeded my expectations 
.
.

Day 5: Batemans Bay to Wollongong

Monday 9th May
Day 5: Batemans to Wollongong 
.
Wow!!!!!
.
Weather today was cracking, like fvcking cracking!!!!
.
So many hot cars
.
So many bikes
.
Neck is sore from saying G'day to everyone on the road
.
Amazing views, Trees So tall they reach to the heavens, waters So blue they look like the Tears of Aphrodite
.
Stripped off to the warm weather gear, loving it
.
New Highway south of Wollongong is like Black silk
.
So amazing to see families out and about today enjoying the weather together 
.
So grateful to my beautiful hosts tonight
.
some cheeky, hairy mate took the run to over $7000, what a Planium Bloody Legend!!!
.

Day 4: Eden to Batemans Bay

Saturday 7th May
Day 4: Eden to Batemans Bay
.
Found some fuel and coffee this morning.  Last night Bob the Taxi driver delivered me to the local for some cracking fish, chips and salad.
.
Weather was amazing, no clouds, top of 19 and was sweating this arvo.
.
Took all the roads that hugged the coast, don't know if I made too many friends with a 1200cc Short Piped Bike, but Christ we rode like the Devil chasing Souls to Burn
.
So many amazing little tucked away beaches
.
The best being without phone reception 
.
maybe the best day I've had on 2 wheels that I can remember, maybe ever
.
Narooma had an Oyster Festival on that definately made things challenging
.
So happy to have spent the evening with Keithy and Chris talking about Nothing and Everything
.
More Sunshine tomorrow, heading toward the 'Gong
.
$6800 so far!!!! you pack of bloody Legends!!!
.
.

Day 3: Lakes Entrance to Eden

Friday 6th May
Day 3:  Lakes Entrance to Eden
.
Decent night's sleep after cracking fish and chips.  Woke up, packed up, jumped on the bike
.
Flat Friggin Battery.
.
Thanks to Lakes Auto Parts
.
On the road again, Sun's out Gun's Out.
.
This part of the country has the best big sweeping bends, so the Little Nightster that could got buried deep into the corners all day.
.
Mallacoota for Lunch, gorgeous spot, locals were great.
.
Exploring around the Timber mill and Light houses before Eden was a great way to spend the arvo.
.
Donations are now over $6000, so I think I'll up the target.
.
Most massive thank you to all that have donated, rung, text, love yas all, amazing stuff.
.
Off to find a Pub
.

Day 2: Phillip Island to Lakes Entrance

Thursday 5th May
Day Two:
.
Sun was shining this morning in Cape Woolamai, Phillip Island.  Spent the evening, last night with the McCabe Gentlemen, which I thoroughly enjoyed.
.
Inclement weather up till lunch, so very cautious riding as it was as slippery as a dog on Lino for most of that time.
.
The weather faired better in the afternoon and with the confidence back under the tyres the little Nighster was getting pushed hard into all those beautiful coast road sweeping corners.
.
Bit of mucking around with gear today and had to use the Jerry Can to save some potential embarrassment.
.
Some breathtaking views of the Victorian coastline, surrounded by mainly Diary, some Beef Farms.
.
Rolled in later than I would have liked to Lakes Entrance, had some fantastic Blue Grenadier and Little Creatures to finish the day.
.
$5500 at the time of writing this.
Please know I love you all for the support, both towards @blackdoginst and myself
.
@kenoath.clothing.co continues to be my guardian angel
.

Day 1 Bamawm to Phillip Island

Thursday 5th May
Running late to get out the gate, standard practise on any trip to be honest.  Cool day in the country, rugged up and hit the black top.  Broke a strap on a saddle bag just as I was about to leave.  Dammit.  Couple of zip ties to sort that and off we go.  Rochester for a quick fuel stop.  Push on down to Heathcote, it's a road I know all to well, weaving around the known potholes, bumps and fresh road kill.  Mornos sponsored by Jimmy Baker, one of my old apprentices.  Great to see a familiar face.  Only there for 30 min and back on the road.  Weather turns bitter coming into Kilmore.  I fuel up and change to the warmest gloves I have.  I take the city link coming into Melbourne, spewing that I didn't have the gopro on for the tunnel run.  Accident southbound brings us all to a walk, I use this time to stretch and warm my body up.  It's funny where you find comfort.  I finally arrive at Street Machine Carnage HQ in Dandenong.  The Lads are in great form.  I'm there to say G'day to friends.  They turn it into a fundraiser and before I can laugh, cry or comment, $1000 is added to my total.  Just in awe.  3pm, I leave Dandenong and cannot stop looking at the rain clouds coming in over the bay.  No escaping this, I'll end up soaked.  I push on as the rain comes in.  It finds a finds cracks in my armour.  I deliberate the 15 min I need to stop and adjust to be dry, I decline and hang on hard for 20 more minutes.  Motorists are giving me the "you're a muppet" look.  Little black harley with a drowned tiprat steaming into The coastal haven of Phillip Island.   As miserable as the weather is, I stay focused and head the beach for footage.  People wanna see details of the trip, they have donated, I Javelin an obligation.   It's always amazing for a country lad to stand in front of the raw power of the ocean.  The original lava lamp.  I take some shots and head to see Pat and Laura.   Such amazing people, the kids keep us entertained.  Later Pat and I walk down the street and have a beer with his brother Luke and his Dad Mike.  It's great to be around good people and I find myself laughing hard often.   Bed is a welcome leisure that evening.  I lay for a minute and reflect.  And just like that, it's Day 2

Thank you to my Sponsors

$1.5k

Northern Mechanical Services

Nice work

$1.02k

Floyd Legg

This looks like an absolute blast, look forward to watching it unfold. Enjoy!!

$1,000

Ben Hewlett

The Amazing Airlie Beach Crew

$880

Mates Of Kenoath Clothing Co.

ON THE BEHALF OF ALL THE KENOATH FAMILY WE ARE SO GRATEFUL FOR YOUR LOVE AND SUPPORT.

$620

Kenoath Clothing Co.

On the behalf of the Kenoath family and all our new supporters, we wish to thank you for being stupendous in articulating an outlet for releasing mental health anguish.

$515

Paul Beckwith & Associates

What a great cause, sometimes you have to give back. Hope this helps you achieve your goals

$515

Scott Taylor

Good luck on the trip mate

$500

Lizard Man

Another on of the Maddest Airlie Beach Crew!!!!

$500

Telfo

Good on you mate, have a blast!

$500

Dylan Hams

Airlie Beach Crew

$350

Matt Reekie

🖤

$265.65

Gaz

Stay safe brother

$262.50

Clive Polidano

Best of luck enjoy and stay safe 😁👌👍

$262.50

Bluestreak Performance

Good job Rooster

$262.50

Lachlan Swain

Keep up the good work mate! Safe travels!

$260.40

Tom Gadsby

Well done mate, so proud of you. Great effort

$250

Ryan Mackintosh

Much love bro! Have a great time!

$210

John Bradley

Go for it Ben, these are matters that deserve so much more light of day discussions, good on you

$210

Lee-ann Dale

Go you good human Thriving So impressed 👏

$210

Outback Outlaw

Mate just saw your interview on Rob’s channel. Appreciate what you are doing.

$210

Renee

$210

Micko Marshall

$210

Nathon And Aimee Burton

Doing gods work legend!!!

$202

Hazey

Absolutely stoked and proud of everything you’re doing to support this great cause. Ride hard and ride safe!

$195.30

Ben Azmi

Awesome man, ride safe.

$186

Bruce Howie

2 wheels journeys are some of the best journeys, enjoy every minute Ben.

$157.50

Jake Burch

Awesome effort son!

$157.50

Ben Dwyer

Great effort mate and safe travels enjoy

$157.50

Benny Cass

Bloody great effort mate! Rocking the road-trip and sharing your story! The PTSD post was awesome, we all need to take a leaf out of your book!

$147

Jennifer & Russell Fox

Fantastic Ben. Great to help keep connection with all different types of families.

$141.75

Brett Car035 Abraham

Well done mate - EVERYTHING about this is great. Just sit down, pat that black dog & be at ease brother.

$122.85

Bondy

You’re a legend Benny! Love ya mate and your work!

$113.40

Tom Gadsby

More Chilli!

$105

Scott Kenny

What a journey, done by an absolute legend. Love your work mate!

$105

Anonymous

$105

Steve Diven

$105

Rollyy

$105

Alex Burch

$105

Jesse Harrison

You always put yourself 100% into your efforts towards others dude. Ride safe brother!

$105

The Wilkos

$105

Simon Edwards

Take good care Benny, look forward to hearing your stories

$105

Rana Manns

Go Benny, ride like the wind, proud of you mate.

$105

Josh

Get after it mate!

$105

Kent Faulkner

$105

Wardey

Safe travels Benny

$105

Alan Ferguson

$105

Nathan

What you’re doing is amazing. Blacky is nothing short of a top bloke who deserves the best. It’s good to see good people assisting where they can. Keep going mate.

$105

Backyardbuilds

Good luck mate. Great cause and a great guy doing it !!

$105

Adam Danby

Legend.

$105

Brendan Cochrane

From a ThongSlapper’ing MOOT

$105

Liam Carey

Stay safe on your ride brother, soak up all those good memories 👌👌

$105

Mat & Kat Fergusson

Amazing work my friend. You are trully the best type of human. Priveleged to call you my mate. Artè et Martè

$105

Matt & Renee Dowd

Great cause and great bloke, ride safe mate and all the best on this epic journey

$105

Just Another Andrew Smith

Top effort pornstar!!

$105

Mel Haines

So proud of you and all you have done for mental health and awareness. You have shared your story and realised such a release in your own healing journey and have had the strength to be raw and show others this journey called life. Keep moving forward and may you always feel the wind in your hair and the sunshine on your face. Keep it real and keep kicking goals. So proud.

$105

Mootshed

Here’s a couple of dollars on behalf of all of us in the MootShed You’re doing a great thing brother, we all appreciate it

$105

Jacen Kenyon

$100

Michael Lehmann

Have a good ride

$100

Jenni Cleave

You are such an inspiration my friend

$100

Craig Rowlands

So proud of you Benny and honoured to host you on the last night of your journey!

$100

Mark Williams

Love your work mate!

$100

Nick Burke

Benny, love your work mate, Didn’t get to spend as much time as I’d liked in Cobar with you being from Melbourne You are a ripping bloke and what a great cause you are doing for mens mental health. 100% behind you, looking forward to following you on your journey and hearing your story, the more we speak up the better we will all be and feel Love ya brother Burkey 🍺

$100

John And Mona Hewlett

$100

Callum Dohnt

Keep up the great work Ben!

$84

Bec Devcic

You are a bloody superstar and should be so proud of what you are doing.

$78.75

Vonny

Well done Benny, safe travels.

$63

Glenn Archer

Keep fighting the good fight brother! Get the message out there, ya doing a bang up job and your brutal honesty has got me in the feels a few times now! I know your trip will helps more than a few soles out!!

$60

David Doolan

Great effort mate. Pity im not on the east cost id join you for a day. Stay safe. Stay positive.

$52.50

Bradley Smith

Good on ya mate

$52.50

Christine Neumann

You should be proud of yourself great thing you are doing. Ride safely. Keith and Chrissie.

$52.50

Jacob Fox

$52.50

Desmond Rose

Thanks Benny for being a great bloke

$52.50

Todd Manns

Keep it vertical brother your doing a awesome job

$52.50

Deon De Meyer

Safe travels mate rippin n a tearin up the coast

$52.50

Sheena P

Enjoy the beautiful Aussie Coastline!

$52.50

Trent Neindorf

Great cause, we’ll done Legend

$52.50

Will Barker

$52.50

Marc Hendrie

$52.50

Travis Owen

Enjoy the ride

$52.50

Lauren Toye

You’re a legend Ben! Thanks for doing this & bringing more awareness to such a worthy cause. Thank you!

$52.50

Jake Fieldus

$52.50

Gards

What a Legend Benny! And a brilliant cause mate. Safe travels

$52.50

Leigh Convey

Take care in your travels brother. Beers when you're back🍺

$52.50

Jillian Dunbar

Power to you Benny. Stay safe.

$52.50

Dale Daff

Good Luck mate, enjoy the ride

$52.50

Alex Read

You’re a titan Benny

$52.50

Redmond. Adam

Get a black dog up ya 😘

$52.50

Simon Clark

Legendary effort from and absolute legendary human being. Benny's you've done a wonderful thing and we are so proud of your champion effort

$52.50

Luke Harris

$52.50

Simon Major

$52.50

Sue Crossley

Well done Benny...you made it!! You are stronger than you think. xx

$52.50

Madison Scholes

Truely inspirational Ben! Xx

$52.50

Marks Gourmet Pies

$52.50

Trent Lovett

Can never get enough awareness for mental health! Awesome job. Something I need to add to my bucket list rides.

$52.50

Jack

Ripnin brother and enjoy the ride 🤘

$52.50

Luke Evo

You are a legend! Looking forward to catching up with you when you hit Brisvegas borther.

$52.50

Justin Roylance

Top stuff mate, stay safe 👌👌👌

$52.50

Linco

$52.50

Anonymous

$52.50

Sam Mcminn

Keep on Keeping on mate!!

$52.50

James Keegan

Good on ya mate, have a safe ride.

$52.50

Broads

You're a legend, Benny!

$52.50

Pete Millynn

$52.50

Eddie & Marg Smith

$52.50

Mark Evans

All the best bro

$52.50

Jason Ballard

Great work Benny, keep up all of your great work. Great cause 👍

$52.50

Jon Smoother

All the best you bloody legend! Thanks for giving back good sir.

$52.50

Brad Barnett

Good on you Benny. You are an absolute legend of a bloke hence the outpouring of support. Keep up the great work mate.

$52.50

Ali Torney

Stay safe ride strong

$52.50

Birdman

$52.50

Jakob Boulton

Good on ya Benny ! Your a legend mate

$52.50

Jim Donovan

Go you good thing

$52.50

Tim Watts

Great work mate

$50

Richard Howlett

Ride Safe Benny.

$42

Kate Kyne

Top Effort Mate, Stay Safe & Enjoy xx

$31.50

Isaac Trueman

God speed Benny! from the VTW boys

$31.50

Heath Dunbar

Well done mate ride safe

$31.50

Beck

Ride like the wind!!

$31.50

Janelle Crockford

Look forward to following your journey Benny. Safe riding. Xx

$31.50

Damien Lipshut

Thanks Benny, your voice on the thongslappers has always had me so interested. You are a great person

$31.50

Sheena Lambie

$31.31

No-redbeard

Keep it upright and the bugs outta the beard 🤘

$30

Britto

Benny for PM 😎

$30

Alan Dyche

Almost at 10k brother

$23.33

Tobyzomb1e

👍👍👍👍

$21

Karyn Voysey

Safe travels mate.

$21

Misty

All the best!

$21

Hachewie

Here from Throttle Downunder. Thanks mate.

$21

Wesley Archbell

Hi Benny! Great cause for a great ride. Have fun and ride safe.

$21

Barb Gear

$21

Anonymous

$21

Mattyobra Odonnell

$21

Tom Smider

Good luck Hewlett, ride safe

$21

Anonymous

$21

Mik Mech

$21

Mark Cregan

you got this hope it goes well

$21

Tom Holt

When you get to Townsville i would love to shout you a few beers and hear about your trip. Cheers

$21

Michael Anthony Avard

$21

Never Latw Podcast

Well done mate, AO & Moses

$21

Rei J

Safe travel

$21

Amanda Holland

$21

Rebecca Wright

What a beautiful human you are Ben. Gosh it’s been many years since I’ve seen you. Look after yourself. What amazing work you are doing to raise awareness of mental health.

$21

Gregg Matthews

Loving your great work brother! Keep it up. Ride Safe and have a good time 🤘

$20

Troy Buzza

$20

Patty Sedat-carey

$20

Jack Houlihan

$15.75

Hal

$10.50

Anonymous

Onya Benny. Thanks for raising awareness.

$10.50

Grant Carnage

Good onya Benny. I hope the Harley makes it, I know you'll make the bike make it!

$10

Mark Hanson

Good on ya Benny. Safe travels mate.

$10

Chris Mcencroe