The annual Royal Far West Ride for Country Kids returns in April for its sixth consecutive year, and this time it’s coming back through Wagga.
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Fundraising for children’s health services in regional and remote towns, the 420km cycle journey will begin in Albury, wind through Wagga and West Wyalong, through to Lake Cargelligo.
“It’s something of an institution now that we’ve been doing it for six years,” said Royal Far West head of fundraising Danielle Chapman.
“It was two years ago that the ride last went to Wagga, so this year we’re bringing it back, because that really is the heartland of our kids’ health mission.”
Registration is now open for teams and individuals to join the ride, but the grueling journey is capped at 75 participants.
“It’s mainly about getting metro people who might have heard about what it’s like to live away from healthcare, but have never really experienced life in these rural centres,” said Ms Chapman.
“It’s about bringing them there to have that experience, to meet the locals, to share inspiration and their influence.
“It’s challenging ourselves in order to get a sense of the challenge that many face in country areas.”
Last year, the three-day ride raised $630,000 for the cause.
“We’re looking at getting at least 10 per cent more than that this year,” said Ms Chapman.
While travelling from town to town, the riders will be given opportunities to stop and engage with local community groups and schools.
“In Wagga, there’s up to 12 schools we’ve been partnering with through Telecare,” said Ms Chapman.
“Around the region there’s about 16 schools all up, including ones in Lockhart, Junee, Collingullie.”
Currently, more than 3000 children in regional and remote NSW towns are accessing medical support from Royal Far West, especially through the Telecare program – which provides satellite services in speech therapy, occupational therapy and psychology.
“Obviously not everyone can join us for the ride, but we are hoping to meet as much of the community as possible,” said Ms Chapman.
Supported by Wagga’s Country Women’s Alliance and other community-driven organisations, on April 7 the riders will stop at Willans Hill model railway for afternoon tea.
“We’re really hoping that many people will come out and say hello.”