Local Wyoming father, Ken Dobbie, will ride the Great Ocean Road to support Gosford East Public School and its plans to construct a new outdoor shelter for its school community.
The ride will take place from February 18 until March 1, starting in Geelong and finishing in Warrnambool. The solo cycling trip covers 370 km over several days, where Ken will camp each night and be completely self-sufficient.
Ken said that after taking part in a similar cycling journey in the United States to raise funds for children living with cancer, he decided he wanted to give back to his local community on the Central Coast.
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Robertson, Dr Gordon Reid MP:
“I commend Ken on supporting Gosford East Public School through this fundraising initiative.
“It is always brilliant to learn about community members who love where they live and want to give back.
“I know that the community at Gosford East Public School, where Ken sends his own son, will be incredibly grateful for all the extra support.
“I wish Ken all the best and look forward to welcoming him back to the Central Coast following the completion of his journey along the Victorian coastline.”
Quotes attributable to Wyoming father, Mr Ken Dobbie:
“After completing a similar bike ride in 2015 from San Francisco to Los Angeles, where I raised money for children with cancer, I was planning to support a national charity again this time. However, my wife thoughtfully suggested focusing on our local community, and her idea inspired me to raise funds for Gosford East Public School. It felt meaningful to support something so close to home, while still taking on a personal challenge.
“This is the first ride I’ve done since the California ride, which was actually the very first ride of any size I had ever attempted. I’ve never explored Australia on a bike before, and I hope this is just the start of many more adventures. If I survive this trip, I’m already planning a bigger challenge, riding from Adelaide to Perth across the Nullarbor in 2028.
“After watching parents around me selflessly give up large portions of their time, volunteering in sports and all manner of activities, it struck me that it doesn’t take much from any one person to make a significant difference collectively. I’d encourage others to find something they’re passionate about and contribute in whatever way they can. Even small efforts, when combined, can have a real impact and bring a strong sense of connection and fulfillment.
“I’d like to see this become the start of semi-regular fundraising, and I hope it might inspire others as well. It doesn’t have to be a bike ride, honestly, it’s just about being involved and active as a parent in the community. Showing up to events and contributing where you can is already a massive step toward making a difference.”
To donate to Ken and for more information, visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/cycling-the-great-ocean-road-for-gosford-east-public-school?attribution_id=sl:a4874694-130a-43ac-9590-d163dfc7805f&lang=en_US&ts=1769309979&utm_campaign=fp_sharesheet&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link
ENDS
