Murray to Moyne teams raise $27,900

Teams representing East Grampians Health Service in this year’s Murray to Moyne Cycle Relay have raised in excess of $27,900.

With a fundraising goal of $25,000, the Cranks and Defibrillators are thrilled to have exceeded their objective, with the money raised this year going towards a new bus for the Patricia Hinchey Centre.

This year 15 cyclists and a support crew of seven, in two teams, took part in the 525-kilometre relay from Swan Hill to Port Fairy.

Setting off from Swan Hill on April 1, the cyclists battled a severe headwind all day making the riding extremely difficult.

“We could see it was going to be a tough day, with wind from the south west getting stronger,” one of the team captains Alan Young said.

“All teams did it tough all day, with no letup from the wind until after Horsham.”

Rotary Club of Ararat members met the team in Horsham to provide them with a well-earned hot meal, before the team hit the road again, eventually riding into Hamilton at 1am Sunday morning.

The Sunday morning ride was in cold conditions that eventually turned to rain, however, the Ararat team rode as one into Port Fairy to applause from the crowd, and were met by EGHS chief executive Nick Bush.

“We are very proud of this year’s Murray to Moyne Cycle Relay teams, the Cranks and Defibrillators, they were wonderful ambassadors for East Grampians Health Service,” Mr Bush said.

“Not only did they undertake the challenge of riding from Swan Hill to Port Fairy, they also raised a significant amount of money towards the purchase of a new bus for the Patricia Hinchey Centre.

“The day centre provides a welcoming place for frail aged and disabled clients to attend each day, with the bus used to transport them to and from the centre, as well as being used for outings and activities.”

The team held a number of fundraising events over the past six months, with Ararat and district businesses also sponsoring the team.

“We are very grateful for the generous donations provided by friends, family, work colleagues and members of the community, as well as sponsorship provided by businesses from Ararat and beyond,” Mr Bush said.

“Many people also volunteered their time to assist at the fundraising events, and for that we are very thankful.

“Without the support of the Ararat community, raising this significant amount of money would not be possible.”

Pictured above:  Full EGHS Murray to Moyne Team Shot