Motor sport legend to headline mental health event in Glen Innes

The three-time winner of Bathurst who spent more or less his entire career behind the wheel of Ford model V8s will be guest of honour at an event organised by GLENRAC later this month.

At the May 17 'Men's Night Out", set to kick off at the Services Club at 6.30pm, Mr Johnson will warm up the crowd with stories of his career as a legend of Australian motor sport.

He said he wouldn't even mind if Holden fans front up as well.

"I'm looking forward to a night of fun and also discussing the serious topic of men's health," he said.

"I'm keen to hear what the health professionals have to say and I hope my fellow Ford fans are as well.

"I suppose we'd better let the Holden blokes take advantage of the free health checks available on the night too!"

Facilitated by GLENRAC and HealthWISE, the Men's Night Out will give people the chance to brush up on the latest information and advice around men's health and wellbeing, whilst also catching up with mates over dinner.

Fellow speaker, Rob Anderson, will also talk about his own struggles with mental health on the night, including the stressors of life on the land as a third-generation farmer and the severe depression he suffered after being forced to give up his family property.

HealthWISE nurse said it was a great opportunity to get farmers away from the drought.

"It's a great chance for men and their partners to mingle with others - like-minded friends, colleagues or community members - who are experiencing similar pressures," he said.

"It's also a free event, with the only cost to participants being what they choose to put over the bar."

The event is one of many funded through the Federal Government's Drough Communities Program, administrated by the Glen Innes Severn Council.