The Sunrise Cycles Biala Charity Ride for the Kids of Biala Support Services Inc. was held over 3 days in late May, 2008.
The 50 riders and support crew travelled more than 350 kilometres and the ride was a great success. The ride raised $14.480.00 for the Biala Support Services - Special School. Riders sold raffle tickets for various prizes. There were many businesses and people who gave very generously to this ride.
The ride covered all terrain from nice coastal flats to some quite large and steep hills near Kyogle. It skirted around the base of the spectacular Mount Warning. The Sunday overnight stop at the Tyalgum Ridge Retreat had magnificent views of Mount Warning.
Thankfully, all riders returned safely to Ballina although quite tired caused mainly from the riding and not the overnight stops!! Amazingly, there were only several punctures to tyres and no other problems except some sore muscles.
The riders are looking forward to the next charity ride.
Recently, Duncan took his balloon flight, with Byron Bay Ballooning ,that
was given to him for his birthday by members of Ballina BUG. He went
with his wife, Prue. They both were ecstatic with the flight and felt
it was one of the highlights of their lives.
They left from the
Tyagrah airfield, near Byron Bay, by bus to the launch site which was
near Coraki. Once airborne, they flew slowly over farm land located
between Lismore and Casino. Finally, they landed near a farm house then
returned to the airfield for a champagne breakfast.
Duncan is
quoted as saying "It is one of those special things that sometimes
happen in your life." He is most grateful to all that made this
possible.
On the 2nd, 3rd and 4th of June, 45 riders departed Ballina for a 380 kilometre ride to raise funds for Camp Quality. The riders traveled 105 kms to Kyogle via Lismore and Casino on Day 1. The next day the ride was more than 130 kms going to Grafton via Casino. On arrival in Grafton the riders were greeted by quite a crowd at Grafton Racecourse. Also, there were riders from as far away as Glen Innes, Coffs Harbour and many areas in between. There were formalities at the Racecourse and it was announced that over $50,000.00 had been raised. Monday morning had the riders return to Lismore by way of Lawrence and the distance was 140 kms. Great friendships have developed as the riders came from a number of cycling organisations. It is hoped this will become an annual event in the Northern Rivers area of NSW
A large number if cyclists from the Northern Rivers took part in the most recent NSW Big Ride. A strong contingent from the Ballina BUG were there to enjoy the trip. Some of them were there for their first cycling trip as well as camping. They experienced all types of weather in their tents. All survived. It commenced at Taree and traveled around the very picturesque Mid North Coast of NSW. Approximately 1063 riders took part on almost every type of bicycle. The distance was around 480 kilometres. Most of the photos came from Ballina BUG rider, Annie.
The Wilson HTM Brisbane to the Gold Coast Cycle Challenge is a ride in
aid of diabetes. The funds raised by riders who decided to become
members of Team Diabetes went directly to Diabetes Australia -
Queensland. Bicycle Queensland is pleased to announce that more than $60,000 has
been raised by the Wilson HTM Brisbane to the Gold Coast Cycle
Challenge this year. BQ will be handing over a cheque for $50,827 to
Diabetes Australia - Queensland at a ceremony at Wilson HTM’s offices
in November. Several members of tthe Ballina BUG rode in this event.
Everyone
