Be Ok Garage Newsletter - Issue 1

Welcome to the very first newsletter from Be OK Garage, where we’ll be talking all things automotive and mental health.

Just to be clear—I'm not a mechanic, and I’m not a doctor. Everything here is based on my own experiences and should be taken as just that—personal, not professional advice.

Project Round-Up

🟧 Skyline

The Skyline is being prepped for the Whackball Run—a charity rally taking 17 cars of all types on a road trip across Northern Ireland and Scotland. We’re raising funds for Suicide or Survive. She’s heading to Sergii at Resto Garage for a full health check. Fingers crossed!

🟥 Jetta

The build stalled due to delays on the “Jessie’s Jetta” body kit—ordered in January, only arriving in July. Lesson learned: cut out the middleman where possible. Next step: running gear install by DubMad Mechanic, then onto paint and bodywork.

🛠️ GTE

This one’s testing me. Every part seems bespoke. MK7 Golf front ends are rare here. Found one in Belfast, but the Marketplace bumper doesn’t fit. It’s a learning curve. After belts go in, it’s off to VW for coding.

🟢 Mystery Car

Found in a field—rotten. Currently undergoing welding, laser rust removal, and complete suspension and ignition system replacement.

The Scene & Responsibility

You've probably seen the Knockmitten incident online. I won’t name names, but we all need to reflect. People left in ambulances, criminal consequences, and more bad press for the car scene.

I’ve been part of the messing in the past—but this? This is the kind of thing that pushes enthusiasts further underground and brings more Garda attention. We were lucky no lives were lost. Let’s be smarter.

Be OK Garage will never host or promote “Location X” style meets. That’s not who we are.

Mental Health Focus: Loneliness & Isolation

Even in a crowd, people can feel alone. Your feelings are real—even if the thoughts behind them aren’t. Recognise it. Own it. Take small steps: mindfulness, connection, movement. Whatever works for you.

We’re launching a Buddy System – someone to go to meets with or chat to online, so no one feels like they’re standing on the outside. Interested in being or having a buddy? DM us on Instagram.