Australia’s largest coast-to-coast cycling event to help raise money for vulnerable children

Ride for Compassion sees cyclists and support crew take to the road to help raise money for vulnerable children living in poverty, including those affected by COVID 19 and the global food crisis.

Kicking off September 17th, a dedicated group of cyclists and support crew are riding a gruelling 4,200 kilometres across Australia, including the rugged terrain of the Nullarbor. The team is aiming to raise $1,000,000 for children living in poverty and see 150 children sponsored through Compassion Australia.

Many remarkable riders are taking part this year, including 69-year-old Ross Adams who has overcome a recent life-threatening brain tumour; 70-year-old Mike Jeffs, founder and CEO of ACCTV; and Nellie Logan who wrote over 3,500 letters to children in Compassion’s sponsorship program just last year.

For 69-year-old Ross Adams, this ride is a particular feat of strength. After an intense surgical procedure to remove a tumour from the frontal lobe of his brain, Ross was left blind in his right eye—but this hasn’t deterred him from the challenge.

“In 2014, I discovered I had a meningioma tumour in the frontal lobe of my brain. I was told I would die if I didn’t have surgery. The tumour was successfully removed, but I currently have a second tumour on a watching brief,” said Ross.

“I am blessed with the physical capacity to ride a bike for long hours, so, for me, it is the perfect way to use my gift to give children an opportunity to live.”

With each cyclist undertakes extensive training before the event, pays for their on-road costs, and raises funds for the work of Compassion. Funds raised will support children living in unthinkable circumstances, including those impacted by COVID-19 and the global food crisis.

“We wish to thank and celebrate all the riders that have invested considerable time, energy and training towards fundraising for vulnerable children living in poverty around the world,” said Compassion Australia CEO Clare Steele.

The event will end on October 19 in Nobbys Beach, Newcastle, NSW.

Menchie Khairuddin

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Menchie Khairuddin is a writer Deputy Content Manager at Akolade and content producer for Third Sector News. She is passionate about social affairs specifically in mixed, multicultural heritage and not-for-profit organisations.

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