By Callum Ludwig
Just over 10 years ago, Norm Orr decided he wanted to see more donated from Warburton to the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal.
A decade on, the Eastern 80 charity bike ride celebrated its 10th anniversary on Saturday 15 February, having raised $100,000 for the Good Friday appeal since its inception.
Not only did the Eastern 80 hit the $100,000 mark, but the 2025 edition has raised over $15,000 alone.
Riders arrived for check-in at 6.30am and set off at 7.30am, starting as usual from the Warburton COG Cafe & Bike Shop at 42 Station Road, Warburton.
Some Eastern 80 events throughout the years have had ambassadors, consisting of local families who have had children who have been helped or were currently being helped by the Royal Children’s Hospital as well as those who have grown up years after receiving important care from the hospital.
Participants had the option of a nine-kilometre walk, 50km ride or 80km ride and the classic Hawaiian-themed Eastern 80 shirts made a return, available for purchase for $35 of which $10 went to the Good Friday Appeal.
The fun didn’t stop at the finish line however, with the Alpine Hotel in Warburton hosting riders for more activities after the race.
There was live music, games and face painting for the kids, lunch, a silent auction, a raffle and a five-hour Happy Hour from 12pm to 5pm for the riders, walkers and event supporters.
Casey MP Aaron Violi said it was an honour to open the 10th Eastern 80 Charity Bike Ride.
“Congratulations to Norm and the team who announced at the starting line that they have raised over $100,000 for the Good Friday Appeal,” he said.
