Royal Far West’s Ride for Country Kids breaks records and builds futures for rural children

In a milestone year for both the organisation and the event, Royal Far West (RFW) has wrapped up its biggest ever Ride for Country Kids, marking 100 years of service with 100 riders, 380 kilometres of riding and more than $820,000 raised to support children living in rural and remote communities.

Held in far west New South Wales, the 2025 Ride saw participants journey through Bourke, Cobar, Hermidale, Trangie, Nevertire, Nyngan and Dubbo, warmly welcomed by local communities, schools and supporters at every stop.

“This Ride embodies everything Royal Far West stands for, going beyond for country kids,” said RFW CEO Jacqui Emery.

“Seeing 100 riders take on this challenge in RFW’s centenary year was incredibly moving. Their dedication, alongside the generosity of our supporters, helped us surpass our fundraising goal. These funds will help deliver life-changing services to the country kids who need them most.”

A centenary celebration with a lasting legacy

This year’s ride not only celebrated RFW’s 100-year anniversary but also set the stage for long-term impact. A new three-year partnership between Bourke and District Children’s Services, the Minderoo Foundation and Royal Far West was announced during the ride, with the aim of expanding early intervention supports for children aged 0 to 6 in the Bourke region.

“We’re not just riding through these towns,” Ms Emery said. “We’re making sure country kids in these regions get the services they need now and into the future.”

Community support drives success

The Ride received strong support from communities across the region. Local leaders, including Dubbo MP Dugald Saunders, country mayors, schools, businesses and branches of the Country Women’s Association, Royal Flying Doctor Service, Isolated Children’s and Parents’ Association and Warran Widgi Arts all contributed to the event’s success.

The Ride concluded in Dubbo with the Royal Far West 100 Year Gala Dinner, a celebration of the organisation’s legacy and a final fundraising effort to sustain its future.

“It was a truly unforgettable evening where we reflected on the impact Royal Far West has made over the past 100 years and rallied together to ensure that impact continues,” Ms Emery said.

Supporting the health and wellbeing of country kids

Established in 1924, Royal Far West is one of Australia’s most respected charities dedicated to connecting children in rural and remote areas with the care they need. Services are delivered through the Centre for Country Kids in Manly, via telehealth, and through local community partnerships.

The funds raised through the Ride for Country Kids will support health, developmental and educational services for country children across Australia.

Find out more about the Ride and ongoing initiatives here.