Postie Bike Safari Set To Crack $1 Million For Charity

Postie Bike Safari riders hit the road from Mackay on Saturday 15th August, embarking on a 2000-kilometre journey through outback Queensland while raising funds for Childhood Cancer Support. Photo source: Postie Bike Safari

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A group of 56 riders hit the road from Mackay last Saturday, kicking off a week-long journey through outback Queensland, with the annual Postie Bike Safari set to surpass $1 million in total funds raised for charity.

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Now in its 14th year, the Postie Bike Safari will see riders travel more than 2000 kilometres on postie bikes, supported by 12 vehicles, while raising funds for Queensland charity Childhood Cancer Support.

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The event began in 2013 when organiser Greg Becke and his workmates brought together friends for their first charity ride.

“What started with 13 bikes and a simple idea has since grown into a passionate annual ride involving dozens of riders and raising over $1,000,000 for charity,” Greg said.

“In the past five years alone, the Safari has raised $620,000 for Childhood Cancer Support.”

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The riders departed from Consolidated Plastics in Paget on Saturday 15th August, before travelling through small towns and rural communities across outback North Queensland.

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For 50 years, Childhood Cancer Support has provided free accommodation, transport and support services to regional families travelling for childhood cancer treatment.

Mr Becke said meeting families supported by the charity had strengthened the riders’ commitment to their annual journey.

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“I’m so proud of what a small group of passionate bike riders has managed to accomplish over the past 14 years,” said Greg.

“We pay for our own fuel, food and accommodation, and give up a week of work, but the generosity we receive along the way makes it all worthwhile. In the past few years, we have seen so many brave children, spoken to their mums and dads, and learned the hardship they face so far from home.

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“We do it all for these families and when we see the smiles on the kids’ faces and talk to the mums and dads, it makes all the dusty bumpy roads and breakdowns worth it.”

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The Safari will conclude in Mackay on Saturday 22^nd August, with riders, families and supporters gathering at the Farview Tavern in Farleigh for an auction and celebration dinner.

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The event has become a major annual fundraiser, with riders covering their own costs so that funds raised can go directly towards supporting families affected by childhood cancer.

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With the cumulative fundraising total expected to pass the $1 million milestone this year, Mr Becke said the achievement reflected the generosity of communities along the route and the commitment of everyone involved.

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To learn more about the initiative or donate to support the cause, visit fundraise.ccs.org.au/event/postie-bike-safari.

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