IT’S NEVER TOO LATE TO SKATE WITH YOUR MATES
ryan.keen@news.com.au to promote camaraderie and stave off depression for those in his age group.
The group also hold fundraisers for mental health support service beyondblue.
“I started it not just for good skaters but people who haven’t skated for 25 years or are learning. People get there, have a good time, it’s all about mateship.
“I have suffered from depression myself. If you have a whole bunch of mates we can all talk to each other and make sure everyone is OK.
“We just started out as a bunch of guys who just met but now we’re all really good mates.”
Mr Winkler said after he launched Facebook page Ol Man Skateboard Riders membership soared.
“I was very surprised at the number of over 40s into skateboarding. It’s amazing how many are getting back into it.”
The father of two sets of twins said any troubles or anxiety disappeared when on the board.
“I’ve found going for a skate keeps you pretty happy. You don’t get down in the dumps. I think it’s just physical activity.
“But I don’t try some of the tricks I used to do when I was younger.”