For the past 11 years, riders in the Mackay and Whitsundays have been getting on their bike to give back to two local charities that do so much for the people in the community.
The BMA River to Reef Ride Festival is an annual charity bike ride that brings friends and families together raising monies for RACQ CQ Rescue and Mackay Sporting Wheelies & Disabled Association.
“BMA River 2 Reef ride started as just a little idea back in 2011 to give the Mackay region an opportunity to give back to charities that do so much for our community,” says Director Evan Corry.
“It’s also a way of uniting businesses, friends and family in a healthy, engaging way.”
The event is a Festival held over two exciting days, kicking off with the Golding Kids Colour Ride on September 3.
“Cycling is not just about adults, learning the skills to ride starts with our kids,” says Evan
“If we can engage our kids early, teach them how to look after their bikes and how to ride safely we are in turn making their bodies stronger and giving them life-long skills.”
BMA’s Linda Martin said, “BMA employs so many people in the region, we have a lot of team members who are keen cyclists who have young families.
“Being the naming rights sponsor for this important event enables our BMA staff to feel connected to their community that is both physically and mentally rewarding.”
Since its inception, River 2 Reef Ride has attracted so many local businesses as sponsors.
“The cycling community in Mackay is larger than the general person realizes,” Evan said.
“We have never struggled to find sponsors for River 2 Reef Ride, businesses want to be involved because of the non-competitive team nature of the event.”
On the second day of the festival, registrants choose one of three cycling distances: a 30km Queensland Country Bank, the Health 60km City Fitness and the 100km Corry Cycles Gran Fondo rides.
This year the ride will start and finish at Mackay Botanic Gardens. The entire Mackay community is invited to join in or spectate.
Registrations for this year’s BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival are now open, visit river2reefride.com.au
Mayor Greg Williamson, Linda Martin (BMA) and River 2 Reef Director Evan Corry launch the 2022 River 2 Reef Festival
