Before departing, participants of the five-day charity ride — destined for Benalla — were first treated to a complimentary breakfast, courtesy of Haynes Butchery and the Tocumwal RSL.
The bacon and egg breakfast was donated by Mr Fuller’s niece Angela Fuller and Glenn Randall.
Tocumwal RSL donated their time and grill to the cause, offering to cook for the road-weary riders.
‘‘Glenn, myself and the team at Haynes Butchery are proud to be sponsoring the annual Ride for Wishes, to raise money for the Make A Wish foundation,’’ Ms Fuller said.
‘‘While we are passionate about supporting fundraising events and the community in general, this cause is particularly close to our hearts, being founded in honour of my cousin, Bailey — son of Tocumwal locals Roger and Andrea Fuller — whom we lost before he had the opportunity to make his wish.’’
Mr Fuller embarked on the first ever charity ride — then known as Bay’s Wish — in 2019 and helped raise $61,000.
Recognising the success of the event, Make A Wish Australia offered to organise it annually.
Now rebranded, the Ride for Wishes has been shortened to a more accessible five day ride, with new routes announced annually.
‘‘Donating bacon and eggs for breakfast to fuel the riders is a small gesture we can do to support the cause. It’s these guys who are putting in the real hard work,’’ said Ms Fuller.
‘‘We would love to see the locals waving and cheering the team on as they pass through. We also appreciate the support of the Tocumwal Rotary volunteers.’’
The event has so far raised $35,904 of its $65,000 goal — all of which is donated to the Make A Wish foundation.
To donate, visit makeawish.org.au/event/ride-for-wishes/theride.
You can also participate in a ‘virtual ride’ mirroring this year’s route.
