A GROUP of bike riders raising money to support communities in cyclone-affected Vanuatu and Queensland pedalled into Orange yesterday, thankful to see even a little sunshine after suffering through their own problematic weather conditions.
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Riders set off on the 2200-kilometre, 14-day Ride to Provide from Tweed Heads on Sunday; raising money for disaster relief and social justice charity Global Care on their way to the 12 Apostles in Victoria.
Global Care national director Peter Pilt said atrocious weather conditions earlier this week hampered efforts and injured riders along the way, especially on the legs through Sawtell to Armidale.
“The first three days were pretty bad,” he said.
“There’s been really cold weather and the rain was really ugly. Going through Armidale it was six degrees, and that’s freezing when you’re on a pushbike.”
An accident on Thursday in the Ponto Falls reserve near Dubbo resulted in Orange rider and Orange Medical Service doctor Colin Dibble being called to assist before he began on the Dubbo to Young via Orange leg.
Mr Pilt remained positive despite setbacks.
“It all goes with the territory,” he said.
“The guys are out there focused on why they’re out there, which is riding for a good cause and raising the profile of Global Care’s work.”
Dr Dibble said he was happy to take part.
“I’m a bit of bike fanatic and that’s why I signed up. But I like to also do my little bit to help others when I can,” he said.
“And I like the concept, it’s very Australian to have mates helping mates.”
The Ride to Provide will fund Global Care’s 73 operations in Australia as well as 17 operations in Chile, Argentina, Asia, Africa and the South Pacific.
No public donations will be taken in Orange.
To support the ride and organisation, visit the website www.globalcare.com.au.