Winston more than happy to chew the cud

Winston the travelling steer has been opening up the mental health conversation in the South West for six years.

Since 2010 seven steers have been auctioned off at the Perth Royal Show with funds going to The Black Dog Charity Ride.

The ride was founded seven years ago by Steve Andrews who has felt the impact of his mother taking her life and a close friend silently suffering depression.

Before Winston goes to his new home he visits various locations around the South West. He attended a barbecue at Rocky Point hosted by Headspace Bunbury with Dardanup farmer Peter Milton on Tuesday. Mr Milton said each year Winston raised more awareness about mental health.

“I take him to places wherever people can interact and talk about suicide prevention,” he said.

“It is amazing how people open up about mental health issues after they see Winston.

“Mental health is an illness not a crime and I want people to talk about it more and more.”

Headspace community engagement officer Penny McCall said the steer was a great way to raise mental health awareness in the community.

“By holding a relaxed and friendly event, people can come up and have a chat,” Ms McCall said.

“The conversation can be started by people simply seeing Winston and walking up to him for a pat.”