The Long Night
Description
WHAT IS THE LONG NIGHT?
On the 26th February 2022, we lost a dear friend, Jimmy Petrie, to suicide.
Jimmy was a fun, caring, beautiful soul that would light up your day every times you were around him.
A year after him losing his battle with mental illness we decided to set up an event to raise funds and awareness to help prevent suicide in our community.
The Long Night was formed in 2023, Josh, Dean & Gus ran 118km from Fed Square in Melbourne to The Shed Gym in Ballarat.
Our mission is to continue to raise awareness in our community on suicide prevention and mental health awareness. We want to help others realise they always have someone to turn to, regardless of how alone they feel. We wish to do this by creating a safe environment for these people to speak in, as well as raising funds for the James Petrie Fund. The James Petrie fund has been created to support projects which respond to mental health issues in the Ballarat region and support youth engagement.
This year, we are still look to raise as much awareness as possible in helping those that are suffering with mental health. We plan to do this by raising as much money as we can for the James Petrie Fund. This money will go towards much needed resources in the Ballarat Foundation, who’s work is a constant on the front line in our battle for mental health in the community.
Where are the funds being used?
Ballarat is experiencing significant mental health challenges. Around 13% of the population lives with long term conditions such as depression and anxiety. This is significantly higher than the Victorian average of 9% and represents a 44% increase. In addition, the rate of intentional self harm, particularly among men, is higher in Ballarat than in Melbourne and the rest of the state. These statistics reflect a growing mental health crisis in our community and highlight the need for accessible, preventative and early intervention support services.
Who is most affected?
The highest rates of mental health conditions are found among people aged 25 to 44. This is a stage of life often shaped by financial pressures, work demands and family responsibilities which can all compound the risk of poor mental health. Beyond the numbers are families, workplaces and friendship groups who feel the ripple effects when someone is struggling. These challenges are often made worse by stigma, financial stress and difficulty accessing timely support.
Agenda
- All day
THE LONG NIGHT 2026
This event will be a 24 hour enduro-run performing as many 6.7km laps of the designated course as possible. The 6.7km loop is on varying terrains including trails. The event starts at 9am on Saturday 1st August and ends 9am Sunday. The participants will be running in the dark to symbolise the struggles of mental health and being alone in the dark with the sun rising in the morning. Your entry fee includes a t-shirt and all profits go to the James Petrie Fund (Ballarat Foundation).
FAQs
- What is the mandatory gear?
Headlamp x 2 (or spare batteries)
Water Carrying Device (Min. 1 Lt)
Mobile Phone
Mini First Aid Kit (must include space blanket)
Food Bar x 2 portions (optional)
Hi-Vis Vest
Thermal Top
Waterproof Breathable Jacket
Beanie / Balaclava / Head sock
We also recommend the following:
Dry, spare warm clothes
Spare Socks & Underwear
Blanket
Camp Chair
Sandals/Crocs/Slippers
Towel(s)
Extra Thermal Top
You will be allocated a place in the gym to setup your own aid station. You may bring a camp chair. Space is limited. If you want to set up a gazebo or roof top tent in the carpark, please let us know and we will accomodate a space for you as well.
- Do I have to stay the full 24 hours?
We know this is a huge undertaking and not for the faint hearted! This event is based on mental health awareness and we are simulating the struggles of mental health. We run into the night and battle through, with the sun rising in the morning; and best of all, we do it together!
So yes, we ask that you remain at the venue for the entire 24 hours. That said you can do as many or as few laps as your heart desires, if you need a nap, go for it!
- Do you accept refunds?
Due to this being a charity event, refunds are not accepted and your entry fee will be treated as a donation to the cause.
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
