Yarra Valley Rotarians pedalled 975 kilometres to raise $50,000 for health research.By Kath Gannaway
ROTARIANS from Healesville, Wandin and Lilydale Rotary Clubs were part of a 60-strong team of cyclists and support crew who pedalled from Lilydale to Albury last month.
The ride, the 22nd by Rotary clubs of District 9810, raised more than $50,000 for the Australian Rotary Health Research Fund.
Jeff Kennedy, a veteran of 12 rides, said the group travelled through some of Victoria’s most scenic areas including Sale, Lakes Entrance, Bright and Mt Hotham.
The ride attracts cyclists from all walks of life and this year included eight exchange students from Europe and Japan. The youngest rider was 16 and the oldest 77.
Since 1985 more than $20 million has been raised for medical research in areas including aged care, adolescent health, family health, mental illness and sudden infant death syndrome.
“The fund has a strong focus on mental health, and particularly mental health in young people,” Mr Kennedy, a Healesville Rotarian, said.
Since 2000 the fund has delivered more than $7 million for mental health research and awareness projects and this year has committed $3.5 million to mental health projects.
Plans are already under way for next year’s ride to Hobart, which will also be the first stage of an around Australia ride.
