Postie Bike Safari takes off from Mackay for childhood cancer support group
A charity bike ride that has been running for over ten years has kicked off, with more than 30 riders on Postie bikes raising nearly $100,000 to support regional kids battling cancer.
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Organisers for a charity ride known as the Postie Bike Safari have said how “brilliant” it is to get together with like-minded people to support kids and families facing cancer.
Greg Becke said he and a few mates had come up with the idea 11 years ago when he and some of the other organisers lived in Glenden “sitting around having a few beers”, thinking about how to give back.
Originally a ride to fundraise for CQ Rescue after a series of bad crashes made them aware of how important rescue helicopters are in regional areas, the Safari has supported Black Dog Institute and Childhood Cancer Support.
The organisation helps supports regional kids and their families having to travel to Brisbane for all important tests or operations, with Mr Becke saying president Bert Pulman had come along on the ride “every year” since the organisation became the Safari’s chosen charity.
“We’ve found that they’re really good, what they do for the children is just unbelievable,” Mr Becke said.
“If your child is diagnosed with cancer ... you end up in Brisbane quicksmart.
“So they pick them up at the airport, drive them to appointments, show mum where to go ... there’s stocked fridges with snacks ... it’s all for free.
“Anything they can do to take the stress out of being down there with your sick kid.”
He said Childhood Cancer Support were also involved in the development of 15 units near the new Children’s Hospital in Brisbane to specifically house regional families travelling for medical help.
The cavalcade of Posties is still making its way in a loop back to Mackay after leaving on Saturday, August 24, going through some of the great lakes around Central Queensland, Maraboon, Awonga and Monduran.
Mr Burke, speaking from their camp at Fairburn Dam near Emerald, said the ride was going “brilliant” with only some minor expected repairs after facing rough back roads, with backup postie bikes ready to go.
At the time of writing, the fundraiser has raised just under $100,000, with more expected at a special Presentation Night with extra auctions when they return on Saturday August 31.
If you would like to support or even get involved with next year’s fun-filled ride, donate at the Childhood Cancer Support link or contact Mr Becke at gregbec@bigpond.com.
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