Peter and Helen van Diemen, Joy and Rudy de Jong, Darren Spargo and Terry Williams are among the Rotarians riding from Orbost to Geelong for a cycling fundraiser.By Paul Dunlop
ROTARIANS are hitting the road for charity.
Members of the Pakenham and KooweerupLang Lang clubs are part of a group of 60 Rotarians, supporters, exchange students, and even a giraffe, preparing to ride from Orbost to Geelong.
The 600kilometre trek will take a week and coincides with the annual district Rotary conference.
The team from Pakenham Rotary Club consists of riders Darren Spargo, Andrew Walsh, Terry Williams and Peter and Helen van Diemen.
Rudy and Joy de Jong, Max Kneebone and Peter Jubb will make the journey on behalf of the KooweerupLang Lang Rotary Club.
As for the giraffe, that’s Harold, the Life Education mascot. He never fails to attract attention on a tandem bike, fitted with special pedals and helmet.
Rotary exchange students staying with local families are also making the trip.
Cyclists and their support crews will cycle at least 100 kilometres each day before arriving in Geelong in time for the conference, which will be attended by around 1000 delegates and guests.
The fiveday ride, starting on Monday, 19 February, will be the fourth time Darren, Terry, Peter and Helen have pedalled to conference events held by Rotary District 9820.
Why ride so far in the February heat?
“It’s definitely worth it when you think of the benefit our community gets back out of the $150,000 previously raised,” Darren said.
Cyclists and crews pay their own expenses and will attend Rotary meetings at towns along the way to promote the ride and encourage friendship and fellowship.
Funds raised by the cyclists from their own sponsorship will be distributed to Life Education, the Gippsland Rotary Centenary House and Interplast.
Gazette readers’ support of the efforts of Rotarians and friends and the valuable work of the charities and organisations they are supporting would be much appreciated, Darren said.
Riders will be passing through the local area during their trek.
Motorists who see the charity cyclists are encouraged to give a toot so they know you care!
* Residents and local businesses are welcome to sponsor the riders. Contact Rotary Club of Pakenham Peter van Diemen at Pakenham Produce and Saddlery on 5941 1844 for details.
