Published: March 14th, 2019
Kicking, or pedalling, off on Sunday the 7th of October was the 2018 inaugural Southwest Bike Trek. The bike trek started at Mueller Park in Subiaco and finished in Augusta on Saturday the 13th of October.
The trek was organised by Foundation member, Eric Maddock, with the help of Lions and Rotary Clubs.
12 riders completed the 600km bike ride, raising a total of $36,376 to help fund important research into childhood cancers. This brings the total funds raised over the past 16 years close to $700,000!
Riders rode through the wonderful southwest towns of Fairbridge, Harvey, Bunbury, Busselton, Margaret River and Augusta.
Participating in the bike ride this time was Katelyn Lush, Executive Assistant of CLCRF. Katelyn diligently trained for several months with the help of Eric, who she thanks for taking the time to make sure she was prepared.
“In the beginning, I never thought I’d be able to actually do it and travel the entire distance but I am beyond ecstatic and overwhelmed to have reached the end with a fantastic bunch of riders and support crew,” Katelyn says. “You can do anything if you set your mind to it, I did!”
The riders were fortunate enough to enjoy lovely weather throughout the trek. “7 days on the bike and we only had a tiny bit of rain, which for a first-time trekker, was very much appreciated,” Katelyn says.
The team were overwhelmed by the amount of support they received from local communities of WA’s South West during the trek, who deserve acknowledgement.
“The support from all the Lions and Rotary clubs as well as the Binningup Senior Citizens, Mooba Coffee, Jarra Infusions, The Beach Shack Cafe and Swings Kitchen made sure no rider went hungry. It would also be remiss of me not to thank Bunbury Toyota for providing a support vehicle and PEACH for their funding of lights, first aid kit and signs.” Says Eric.
It was also great to see local schools getting involved, including St Joseph’s School in Waroona and Harvey Primary school who brought 65 kids and the principal for a bit of fresh air and exercise.
The Foundation would like to commend the efforts of all who participated in the Southwest Bike Trek and we look forward to another successful bike ride in 2019!
Email [email protected] to register your interest.
