Their cargo — a gigantic $50,000 cheque — reached the doors of Echuca Regional Health on Tuesday, March 10.
The donation marks the culmination of a journey that began with the roar of engines that can reach only 85 km/h and ended with a massive boost for the local healthcare system.
Organised by the Horizon Charitable Trust, it’s one of the group’s flagship events along with its Men’s Longest Lunch event, which aims to support regional health care.
The group has raised nearly $3 million over nearly a decade.
Its members started their four-day journey on February 27 at Phillip Island, beginning with a parade lap around the motor-racing circuit.
Over the next three days, the group travelled hundreds of kilometres through parts of West and South Gippsland including Mirboo North, Boolarra and the Grand Ridge area.
Now in its ninth year, the adventure has become a staple for some drivers, who find the experience just as rewarding as it is challenging.
Each rider is required to raise at least $2000, totalling over $100,000 split between ERH and West Gippsland Healthcare Group.
HCT committee member Darren Stephenson said some of the riders could not get enough.
“To be able to raise that sort of money — it’s a bit of an addiction to the guys,” Mr Stephenson said.
“Once they’ve done it once they want to keep coming back.
“And it’s just a feel-good thing to do for our community.”
ERH executive director for finance and corporate service Robyn Rudge said the team was always grateful to community groups such as Horizon Charitable Trust for helping the hospital care for community members.
“What they provide supports us in delivering care – it’s great the community is part of providing that,” she said.
“The camaraderie that they have and bring to everything encourages us all.”
