Imagine cycling for 8 days, covering 1,311 kilometres from Brisbane to Longreach. For many that thought would be considered absurd, irrational and perhaps even laughable. Yet, for those taking part in the 2022 RideWest event from 22-29 April it will become a gruelling reality. Their motivation? In part, it is the challenge and physicality of the journey, embracing the scenery, the camaraderie and of course the feeling of achievement and obvious euphoria of completing the journey. It is however so much more than that. It’s about coming together for a cause with a motivated group of likeminded individuals. For RideWest that cause is raising money for the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) and their Wellbeing Out West (WOW) through which they provide mental health support programs for regional Queenslanders. As a bi-annual charity bike ride, RideWest has raised more than $1,400,000. This year, 30 riders will be significantly contributing to that legacy.

Churchie has had a significant involvement with RideWest over the last 12 years with many Old Boys and parents participating as riders. This year is no exception, with five Old Boys and one current parent taking to the tar. They are Andrew Perkins (1977), Rob Sendall (1988), Grant Menzies (1988), Murray Davis (1997), Nathan Gibbs (1997) and Cullum Hughes. Each of the riders will rely upon the generosity of many, so please get behind them.

2018 RideWest ‘Churchie’ participants (L-R): Dave Neal (Churchie parent), Rob Sendall (1988), Don Chandler (1982), Andrew Perkins (1977), Michael Williams (1978) and Mark Maiden (1982).