Politicians in lycra heading to the Mid North Coast Coffs Coast Nambucca Valley by News Of The Area - Modern Media - October 18, 2024 Riders during last year’s Pollie Pedal in Western Australia. HAVING been handed the reins to the fundraiser by a former Prime Minister, Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor will lead a group of intrepid cyclists including federal politicians on Pollie Pedal 24, a challenging 1000 kilometre ride beginning in Gosford and ending in Port Macquarie. The Pollie Pedal was started back in 1998 by Tony Abbott, who passed the baton to Mr Taylor when he left politics. Advertise with News of The Area today. It’s worth it for your business. Message us. Phone us – (02) 4981 8882. Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au Mr Abbott remains a key figure and annual participant as the fundraiser’s Patron. Since its inception, riders have covered more than 24,000km and raised over $7.3 million for various charities. This year’s iteration raises funds for Wandering Warriors, a charity organisation supporting veterans and their families through education, employment, respite and mentoring programs Joining this year’s ride is Federal Member for Lyne Dr David Gillespie, while local MPs are set to join the travelling group for scheduled events in regional towns. Kicking off the fundraising ride on 20 October in Gosford, the group will cycle through Dorrigo, Bellingen, Urunga, Nambucca Heads, Macksville and South West Rocks on Saturday, 26 October. The following day the ride will travel through South West Rocks, Kempsey and Port Macquarie. “It’s a real privilege to be able to support our veterans as they move from military life to civilian life, making sure that they use those incredible skills they’ve built in their time in the military, out in civilian life,” Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor said. “A number of veterans will once again join us on this year’s cycle. “It’s a privilege to ride with those who have put their lives on the line and served our nation in uniform.” Mr Taylor said the Pollie Pedal is a great opportunity to “get out of the suit and spend some quality time in regional communities”. “It’s the people you meet and the stories they tell that make Pollie Pedal so special for me,” he said. “I’m also grateful that volunteer group Rapid Relief Team will be back on board this year to provide us with the coffee and carbs we need to get through the long days in the saddle!” To donate, visit WanderingWarriors.org/Pollie-Pedal