About 1000 riders turned out in a reduced-capacity annual MRA Toy Run
Motorbike riders have brought festive cheer – and raised thousands of dollars – as they hit the streets for the annual MRA Toy Run. SEE ALL THE PICTURES >>
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RIDER numbers were reduced this year but there was no throttling the excitement of riders in the 41st annual Hobart toy run.
In a shorter route than last year – when more than 7000 riders participated in the fundraiser – about 1000 motorcyclists left the Derwent Entertainment Centre on Saturday en route to Macquarie Point for the annual MRA Toy Run.
About $3600 was raised for the Salvation Army along with gift cards and hundreds of Christmas toys.
The Toy Run, formerly held in every Australian city, is now run only in Hobart and attracts riders from outside the state.
Saturday’s run was the fifth time Glenorchy resident Scott Dance has participated in the charity run, which he said had turned into a family event.
“Normally my oldest son, who couldn’t make it this year, rides alongside me. But it was still a good day out with my other son, partner, brother and good mate,” he said.
“It’s a bit of a tradition for us. To see the bright faces on the kids who wave to us on the side of the road is very special.”
Mr Dance said his Harley-Davidson Sportster was decorated with a hand-knitted Santa toy his stepmother made.
Salvation Army public relations manager Brad Watson said organisers were grateful to hold the event in a COVID-safe way this year, despite the reduced participation numbers.
“The essence of the day is community. It’s the people of Tasmania coming together through an event where we can become conduits of their generosity,” he said.
“It’s families supporting families and this is a way that we’re able to bring all that together.”
Mr Watson said event organisers were hopeful the annual ride could reintroduce its Parliament Lawns finish line next year and welcome back similar participation numbers to 2019.
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