Charles Sturt University students bare all for annual Off the Leash calendar

Every year, veterinary students take part in a photo shot for the Off the Leash calendar.

Students look forward to the rite of passage, which has become a major part of the Halfway Festival third year students host to mark the midway point of their six-year degree.

But there is also a serious reason why two-thirds of the Class of 2020 have bared it all in the chilly Wagga temperatures.

The class is raising money and awareness for the Black Dog Institute, which advocates for mental health funding and support services.

Laura Wood and Liesel Park are two third-year students who participated in the calendar shoot.

"All of the students involved were happy to get behind the cause, even if it means stripping down in the Wagga weather," Miss Wood said.

"The veterinary industry has a large concern for mental health given vets are four times more likely than the general population to commit suicide, and two times more likely than other health professionals."

Miss Park said while the calendar might be a little bit cheeky, it sends a message that Charles Sturt students are about more than partying and studying.

"It shows we do care about the wider community and it's definitely important for people to understand that because we are going to be a part of the Wagga community for the next three years," she said.

Miss Park said shooting the calendar, which took place between May and July, was a bonding experience for those involved and all of the students are happy with how the photos turned out.

Photographer Jessie Devenish praised the students for the way they approached the photo shots.

"It was an amazing experience. They were all so supportive of each other," Ms Devenish said.

Organisers are finalising the images and the calendar will be printed soon.

The official launch of the calendar will be at the 3rd Year Class of 2022 Halfway Festival at the end of September.

The calendar is expected to be sold in shops and businesses in Wagga. Pre-orders are now open and can be made by visiting the Veterinary Students Association shop, creating an account (if you are not a Charles Sturt staff member or student) and placing the order.

To donate without buying a calendar, visit the Off the Leash everyday hero page.

If you or someone you know needs help, contact Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.