Royal Far West celebrates 10 years of Ride for Country Kids on Sapphire Coast

Children’s charity Royal Far West (RFW) recently celebrates a significant milestone for its annual Ride for Country Kids event, with 50 riders covering over 330km and raising $350,000 for country children.

Established in 1924, RFW is one of Australia’s most enduring and respected charities dedicated to connecting children in rural and remote communities to the care they need. 

The charity offers health, education and disability services for country children and their families at the Centre for Country Kids in Manly, virtually via telehealth and in local communities.

RFW’s Ride for Country Kids took place on 17-19 March on the Sapphire Coast of New South Wales, raising money for health and developmental services in rural and remote communities.

The event route took riders from coast to country through the amazing scenery and wonderful communities of the Sapphire Coast, starting in Merimbula, and visiting Eden, Wyndham, Bega, and Tathra before finishing in Cobargo.

The event began with Russell Fitzpatrick, Bega Valley Shire Mayor, and Jacqueline Emery, RFW CEO holding a ceremony to send the riders on their three day journey, which concluded at 

Cobargo Primary School, with an excited group of year five and six students welcoming them and joining the riders for a final lap around the school.

“We are so proud of our team of dedicated riders,” Ms Emery said. 

“They have been busy not only training, but also raising funds and awareness for the work we do at RFW for months. It’s a huge achievement and we are so thankful for their support.”

For local rider Graeme Andrews, from Millingandi, the ride was “tough, but worth it,” knowing 

every kilometre was making a difference to communities like his.

“It’s been a huge three days, but it was worth it because we knew we were riding in support of RFW’s work supporting country children and families.”

“I live locally, and it surprised me hearing from the school principals, local parents and RFW’s team about just how challenging it can be to access services here. It’s also inspiring to see the resilience in the community after the bushfires, and how RFW played an important role in supporting the children and the people around them in the recovery of this.”

Donations to the event are still open. Find out more at www.royalfarwest.org.au.