Mates Day: The Ballarat concert raising funds for veterans battling PTSD
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03.11.2023

Mates Day: The Ballarat concert raising funds for veterans battling PTSD

Words by Staff Writer

Mates Day concert is heading to Burrumbeet Racecourse to support veterans battling PTSD

In a heartfelt effort to support and raise awareness for the region’s returned servicepeople coping with post-traumatic stress injuries, the Mates Day concert is set to take over the Burrumbeet Racecourse next month. This highly anticipated event marks the resurgence of an annual tradition after a four-year hiatus.

Proceeds from the concert will go towards the veterans’ support group Military Brotherhood Motorcycle Club’s Western Victorian chapter. The organiser of this charitable spectacle, Chris Wilson, is on a mission to create a fun and relaxing atmosphere while giving back to those who fought for their country.

Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

The event is scheduled to kick off at midday and will feature a diverse lineup of eight local acts, promising a day filled with fantastic live music. The acts include Shane Gilbert, Mid Life Crisis and Co, Deluxe, White Line Fever, The Shorts, Old Melbourne Road, The Aliens, and performances by Steve, Rach, and Georgie.

 

The event will offer a variety of refreshments, with the option to bring your own esky full of your favourite drinks. Foodies are in for a treat as well, with food trucks including The Paella Guy serving up delightful paella dishes, hot jam donuts, and more. The Military Brotherhood Motorcycle Club will be on hand with their WizzBang BBQ trailer, ensuring that no one goes hungry.

The best part is that it’s not a ticketed event. Instead, it’s a donation-only gathering, where attendees can give what they can to support a noble cause. The event is designed to bring people together, providing an opportunity to sit back, relax, have fun, and, most importantly, contribute to a significant cause.

Chris Wilson’s initiative began in 2016, stemming from a personal party that evolved into a full-blown event that attracted hundreds of people. The event has grown exponentially over the years, with a staggering $10,000 raised for the Military Brotherhood Motorcycle Club. The Military Brotherhood MMC (MMC) is a Tri-Service military motorcycle club comprising serving and ex-serving Australian Defence Force (ADF) and Commonwealth Forces members, their families, friends and support riders. MMC is an Australian-wide club and their mission is to support club members, Veterans and ex-service members along with their families for the next thirty years. MMC is a ‘safe haven’ for serving and ex-serving ADF members and their families creating camaraderie, mateship and commitment.

Mates Day is set to take place on Saturday, 11 November, running from 12 pm to 10 pm. Attendees can expect a fantastic day of live music, delicious food, and a heartwarming atmosphere, all while making a valuable contribution to support veterans facing PTSD. Mates Day is not just a celebration of great music but a reminder of the importance of supporting those who’ve served their country and need help in their battle with PTSD. It’s a day of giving back and raising awareness while having a fantastic time with the community.

So mark your calendars, bring your cash, and join the celebration at Burrumbeet Racecourse on November 11, 2023.