Pedalling with purpose: locals gear up to cycle across NNSW 

Cyclists have taken to the pavement to embark on the 21st annual Ride for Sick Kids, raising funds for Ronald McDonald House Charities.

Kicking off yesterday, the 500 kilometre journey continues until Saturday, 30 August, where up to 20 cyclists will turn miles into smiles as they cycle from Grafton to Newcastle with the aim of raising 1,562 nights of accommodation at Ronald McDonald House (equivalent to $250,000). 

Every dollar raised helps keep the wheels turning at RMHC Northern NSW, helping the charity continue to support seriously ill and injured children and their families, including Ayla’s family.

Their world was turned upside down since Ayla was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma when she was only one year old. 

For over a year, Ayla and her family have called Ronald McDonald House their home away from home, relocating from Coffs Harbour to stay together while Ayla received lifesaving medical treatments at the John Hunter Children’s Hospital. 

 “Since Ayla’s diagnosis, we’ve had a place to stay only minutes away from the hospital that is full of warmth and comfort. As the doctors worked to save Ayla’s life the House has been our family home for many, many months.” Ayla’s mum, Beatrice said.

“We have no family here in Australia so being surrounded by the caring community at the House is an invaluable support system. It has been our home during many milestones together, such as Ayla’s second birthday and her sister, Anne-Georga’s, fourth birthday.”   

Now in its 21st year, Ride for Sick Kids is a vital fundraiser that keep families like Ayla’s togeher so they can focus on what’s important – their sick child.  

 “Helping keep families together and close to the vital care their child needs is at the heart of what we do. Ronald McDonald House is a home where families can find comfort and support from a community, so no one has to face their child’s illness alone.” said Ross Bingham, CEO for RMHC Northern NSW and 2025 ride.

“As an independent charity we’re incredibly grateful for the continuous support from locals for Ride for Sick Kids, that helps us keep our doors open to families when they need us the most. While it’s a tough ride, the impact is far greater.” 

 Confirmed Route:  

·         Day 1: Tuesday, 26 August- Grafton to Coffs Harbour  

·         Day 2: Wednesday, 27 August– Coffs Harbour to Port Macquarie  

·         Day 3: Thursday, 28 August – Port Macquarie to Forster  

·         Day 4: Friday, 29 August – Forster to Nelson Bay  

·         Day 5: Saturday, 30 August – Nelson Bay to Newcastle 

You can support families with sick kids at www.rideforsickkids.org.au by donating to a rider or jumping in the saddle and joining the Community Ride: individuals, schools, gyms, sporting groups and local businesses can also ride and fundraise.