Fundraising riders take to the road

A TEAM of cyclists is getting ready to ride from Mildura to Port Fairy for the third time as part of an annual fundraising drive for cancer research.

Called Jimmy’s Licorice Allsorts and led by founder James Waight, the team has raised more than $125,000 for the Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute since forming in 2020.

With a goal of between $40,000 and $50,000 this year, Mr Waight said it will be an intense two days of riding, which will take place on the weekend of 1 and 2 April.

“We ride for 24 hours to get to Port Fairy, so it’s actually a relay cycling event. Somebody’s on the bike all the time until 11pm on the Saturday before finishing the next morning,” he said.

“This has a personal dimension for me. I was diagnosed with cancer in 2019 and I’ve had chemo and immunotherapy since then.

“I’ve seen firsthand what research can achieve. We haven’t retrieved the golden ticket of a cure yet but treatment options are much better than what they were.

“That’s only through research and particularly why we’re focused on FECRI is they’re a local research institute based in Ballarat.”

The team held their 2023 fundraising launch event on Saturday afternoon at the Arch View Cafe with mayor Cr Des Hudson and Member for Wendouree, Juliana Addison attending.

This year’s event will see Allsorts alumnus Jed Manley’s son Jack, and Scott Petrie’s son Lachie joining the team of nearly 20 riders.

Mr Waight said the friendship between the riders and their altruistic goal is what’s kept him motivated.

“Our motto is fighting cancer on two wheels. That’s the motivation, that we’re going to fight this in the best way we can,” he said.

“There’s other facets to this though. The camaraderie, the support from one another and knowing we’re actually making a difference in the community.

“Our team number is 367 because 367 people per day are diagnosed with cancer in Australia. It’s a nod to them.”

To donate, visit jimmyallsorts.gofundraise.com.au.