Perth Dad to Hit 5,000km Milestone for Lifeline WA During Mental Health Week

Perth father-of-three Owen Devine will cycle his 5,000th kilometre for Lifeline WA this Saturday (11 October 2025).

The milestone falls during WA Mental Health Week and highlights the power of speaking up and seeking help.

Owen’s journey began after his own brush with suicide five years ago, when he sat in his car contemplating taking his life until a stranger knocked on the window and asked if he was okay.

“That moment changed everything,” Owen said.

“I reached out to Lifeline WA soon after, and it gave me a second chance at life. When I think about what it would have done to my kids if I wasn’t around… I don’t want any other families going through that.”

Since then, the FIFO worker has channelled his experience into action, cycling thousands of kilometres both through the Mental Health Matters 200 (MHM200) ride and in his own personal challenges, while inspiring countless conversations about mental health along the way.

His efforts have already raised $78,000 toward his goal of $100,000 for Lifeline WA’s 24/7 crisis support services.

Owen first joined the MHM200, a 200km charity bike ride designed to raise awareness of men’s mental health, in 2020 after a friend’s family was impacted by suicide.

“The day of the ride, I saw what we could do when we all came together,” he said.

“There were tears. We encouraged each other. We told our stories. Something ignited in me that day and the second year I was all in,” he said.

Lifeline WA CEO Lorna MacGregor said Owen’s story was a powerful reminder that help is always available.

“Owen shows us what’s possible when someone turns pain into purpose,” she said.

“Every kilometre he rides sends a message of hope, that speaking up and supporting one another can save lives,”

Last year, Lifeline WA responded to more than 160,000 conversations from Australians in crisis.

Owen will complete his 5,000th kilometre at Mullaloo on Saturday 11 October 2025.

To support Owen’s ride and Lifeline WA’s lifesaving services, visit https://www.mycause.com.au/page/368017/owen-devine