Okeland Communities pedals for youth mental health

At Okeland Communities, family is at the heart of what we do.

It is why we insist on creating unified communities that allow local families to flourish.

But we know many families and communities are often devastated by the loss of young lives due to mental health conditions.

Determined to make an impact, our very own Managing Director Adam Shephard, headed up a team of 6 cyclists to embark on a massive 700km journey to raise vital awareness and funds for youth mental health and suicide prevention.

Adam and a team of five other dedicated cyclists - sponsored by Okeland Communities – participated in the 2025 Hawaiian Ride for Youth.

Together, the team rode over four and a half days from Albany to Perth, getting their wheels moving to raise an incredible $53,942 for Youth Focus.

This leading WA charity supports the mental health of thousands of young people by delivering professional counselling services and educating communities on youth mental health and suicide prevention.

According to Youth Focus almost every week, one child, sibling, relative or friend under the age of 25 sadly dies by suicide.

“To hear that youth mental health effects such a large number of people in WA communities is heartbreaking and it truly hits close to home,” said Adam Shephard.

“We’re thankful to know that there are charities out there like Youth Focus who are dedicated to making a real-life impact.

“We need to stand together to put an end to the sad reality of these statistics.”

During the Hawaiian Ride for Youth, riders take part in fundraising activities and awareness-raising initiatives.

The team and local school students at Great Southern Grammar, Albany were humbled to hear from Adam’s cycling teammate Tiffany Allen, who shared the story of her son’s struggle with depression.  

It is strong and resilient people like Tiffany who share their lived experience that help young people understand they are never alone, and there are safe places to turn to if they are struggling with their mental health.

Okeland Communities was honoured to be involved in this year’s Hawaiian Ride for Mental Health and to have played a part in the collective total of $2,005,455 raised for Youth Focus.

A big congratulations to Adam and the entire Okeland Communities team for all the hard work, energy and passion that went into the ride.

We hope those aching legs have recovered, and you can give yourself a big pat on the back for helping to make a massive impact!

If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health, or you would like to find out more about the great work from Youth Focus, visit www.youthfocus.com.au.