2013 Black Dog Ride - one month to go!

Ahead of the official start of the ride on August 17, organisers are saying this year's journey will be the largest ever, with some of the week-long ticket options selling out days after registration opened.

Day Rider and Night Rider tickets will still be available until July 31, when registration for the ride closes.

Now in its fourth year, the Black Dog Ride is a national fundraiser aiming to generate awareness of depression and suicide prevention in Australia.

Funds raised by the riders go directly to Mental Health First Aid and Lifeline Australia. To date, the independent organisation founded by Steve Andrews in 2009 has raised over $800,000 for mental illness treatment.

"I am overwhelmed with the enormous support we have received this year. Depression is an illness, not a weakness. If we talk about depression and work together, we can make a difference," he said.

Last year's ride to the Red Centre attracted over 500 motorbike riders across Australia. The Today Show and Channel Nine News supported the ride, with reporter Simon Bouda completing the weeklong ride.

The Ride to the Red Centre departs from all major capital cities on Saturday, August 17, arriving in Alice Springs on Friday August 23.

Donations can still be made in support of the Ride. To make a donation, go to http://www.everydayhero.com.au/event/redcentre2013

For more information on the ride itself, see www.blackdogride.com.au