Almost one in five Australians experiences some form of mental illness every year, and nearly half of the population (45 percent) will experience a mental illness at some stage in their lives.

Lift the Lid on Mental Illness is a national mental health fundraising and awareness initiative of Australian Rotary Health, that aims to raise funds for mental health research and ultimately improve the lives of all Australians.

Orange Daybreak president Sue Moffat said over $700 was raised by members and non-members at a Mad Hatters and Masks lunch for the campaign on October 18.

Speakers for the day included representatives from Fusion Orange as well as from Step by Step Bushfire Recovery who spoke about mental health issues in the community.

"The Mad Hatters and Masks Lunch was great fun and well supported by members and non-members," she added.

To make a donation, visit www.australianrotaryhealth.org.au or www.hatday.com.au.