Ride The Bellarine for SIDS cruises past fundraising record

THE second annual Ride The Bellarine for SIDS has reached new heights with the Bellarine-based charity ride breaking its inaugural fundraising record this past weekend.

This year’s Ride The Bellarine for SIDS raised in excess of $32,000 on Saturday (August 5) breaking its old record set last year of $26,514, with all proceeds going towards Red Nose Australia.

Ride director Peter Herrick said it was a proud feeling to team up with 22 other cyclists to undertake a 110km course around the Bellarine Peninsula in honour of Charlotte Halse, who sadly passed away at birth.

“What I was really proud of was the support from the community,” Mr Herrick said.

“From local MP Alison Marchant who shared her story, to the Ocean Grove Surf Lifesaving Club, to Poppy Bottrell, Charlotte’s mum, who was inspirational to the group, and Red Nose Australia ambassador Amie Rohan who jumped on board this year.

“I’m extremely proud of everyone who took part in this year’s event and supported us along the way, it takes a team to fight against SIDS and we will continue the fight for years to come.”

This year’s Ride The Bellarine for SIDS team had more than double the number of cyclists compared with total.

Mr Herrick said it is exciting to see the ride grow at a rapid rate.

“We are really excited about the fact that we’ve gone up over $6,000 and 12 riders this year, and we’re already looking forward to the challenge of trying to match and beat those totals in 2024,” Mr Herrick said.

“It feels like we’re building momentum for this cause, and it feels like we can continue growing.”

To donate to Ride The Bellarine for SIDS, head to www.rideforsids.com and help the team reach its $50,000 target.