Drive Against Depression recently held its final Sydney event for the year, with a stunning trip along some of the NSW south coast’s most popular roads. With 50 cars and a very healthy passenger count, it was an early start to head to Cook @ Kurnell.
Boasting water views and an eclectic setup (the kitchen was in a bus) there’s plenty of seating to take in the sunshine and ocean views. It was great to see old friends from previous events too, along with some newcomers.
With full bellies and wide eyes, it was time to hear from guest speaker Arrnott Olssen. I’ve always loved hearing from guests at these events. It’s a great way to break down stigma and a wonderful way to learn and take in different ideas.
Arrnott is a man of many talents, and I was lucky enough to have him as a passenger on the outbound leg of the drive. A vocalist, chef and TV presenter, he’s just another guy and most importantly, a son who shared the grief of losing his mother.
His was a heartfelt tribute that led to a discussion about the tools that he used to get back on track. Arrnott also holds events for men to get together in the form of Menletstalk. With these thoughts in mind, it was time to point 50 metallic noses south bound.
It’s always a kick to drive in convoy; but as lead car for the event, I had the unique opportunity to take in far more cars in the rearview than I’d ever experience before. As is always the case on a DAD drive, there is something for everyone.
From a gorgeous classic Monaro to a 996 GT3, a Focus ST and a gaggle of MX-5, there was plenty to look at, including a Tesla that drove all the way from Adelaide using the brand’s “full self drive” functionality.
My steed for the day was a Mustang GT. It made for the perfect lead vehicle, with a distinct duality of purpose. It steers well, sounds great and really can’t be missed in its eye-searing metallic orange jacket.
If you live in Sydney and like to drive, there’s a very good chance you’ve driven “The Nasho” at some point. Turning into the Royal National Park at Engadine reveals a two-lane run through a vast array of different scenery.
A favourite among motoring enthusiasts of both two and 4-wheeled persuasions, it provided a break from Sydney traffic while getting some fresh air through both human and automotive air intakes.
Before long we arrived at our first stop; Flying High Cafe at the stunning Bald Hill Lookout. Any manner of time here is a good thing, with glorious views across the ocean, right down to the commencement of the Seacliff Bridge.
The next leg took us on a coastal route through Scarborough and Bulli. I’ll call them cute towns, but the reality is these are thriving communities with plenty of interesting places to stop and take in the view or grab a bite to eat.
The Seacliff Bridge is a sight for sore eyes. Seemingly jutting from the rockface to the right, it runs over the ocean in a picture-perfect set of bends. A tight convoy made from some beautiful imagery courtesy of the team at Digital Fuel Productions.
From there, it was on to the Illawarra Brewery in Wollongong. With the sea breeze cooling everyone off on an unseasonably warm spring day, and plenty of chats among friends new and old, we soon drew a range of raffle prizes from our partners.
Uniden provided a couple of dashcams to supplement the already generous portable speakers and other items provided to all attendees on the day. A $150 voucher from Wipertech went to the person who changed a wiper blade fastest at our start point.
Ford Australia gave one lucky winner a Ford of their choice for a week. Departing up the hill from Wollongong with a full belly and a decidedly full cup was a satisfying feeling indeed. If you’ve not been on a Drive Against Depression drive day, try and make it happen.
It doesn’t matter what you drive, where you’re from, or what may be challenging you. Just come with a passion for your car and driving it, along with an open mind. You can find out more on their website: www.driveagainstdepression.com.au.
