POPULAR HAWKESBURY EMPLOYEE SAYS FAREWELL

THE forthcoming 20th anniversary of Hawkesbury’s stand-alone Saturday metropolitan meeting will mark the end of an era for long-standing employee Rick Johnston.

The club’s biggest raceday of the year on May 3 will be Johnston’s last before he retires the following Friday.

He has decided to take a step back and head west while assisting his son “BJ” in his earthmoving business.

 Hawkesbury Race Club chief executive James Heddo has paid tribute to the popular Johston, who for a number of years served as racecourse manager.

“Rick joined the club in December 2004, and his knowledge of the racecourse, grounds and operations in unparalleled,” Heddo said today.

“He is extremely well respected throughout the racing industry, and leaves the club with our appreciation for his lengthy contribution along with our best wishes for the future.

“Having lived and worked with the club for over 20 years, it has been such a big part of my life,” Johnston said.

“I have truly enjoyed my time here, being part of an amazing team, and I’m incredibly grateful for the experiences and opportunities afforded me along with the friendships I’ve built along the way.”

. Meanwhile, men’s mental health and wellbeing will be at the fore in the Race Against Suicide Raceday at Kembla Grange on Saturday, June 21.

The meeting will be dedicated to raising both awareness and vital funds for men’s mental health and wellbeing initiatives

The day is presented with the support of local not-for-profit organisations and will feature a luncheon with a panel of experts who will share their insights, discuss the prevalence and impact of mental health conditions, and offer guidance on the resources available.

Proceeds from the day will be directed to providing local support and reducing the impact of suicide in The Illawarra.

The June 21 raceday coincides with Men’s Mental Health Month, which focuses on both physical and mental health, emotional wellbeing, and building healthy habits.

One in two Australians will experience a mental health condition at some point in their lifetime, but men are far less likely to reach out for help when they need it.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, nine Australians die from suicide every day. Seven of these are men.

“These are figures we cannot ignore,” Illawarra Turd Club operations manager Chloe Hackett said.

“As a racing club, we can bring people together, start important conversations and let people know why they are not alone.

“Mental health challenges can affect anyone and by holding this special race day we hope to break the stigma.”

Story John Curtis, April 14, 2025