Although it was a physically challenging course, winding through hilly terrain, the scenic Lake St Clair Charity Bike was a success.
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From attracting 144 riders from all over the state, to being able to donate a massive $11 000 to the Singleton Neighbourhood centre, all the feedback has been positive.
Exceeding the expectations of organisers, it’s future looks assured as there were “no major hiccups”, says Rotary president Lindy Hyam.
“Of course there will be things we tinker with but we will be holding the event on the third Saturday in August every year,” she says.
“It seems to be the ideal time as it’s not too hot and doesn’t clash with the summer campers using the lake,” Ms Hyam says.
Pulling off the inaugural ride was a joint effort between Rotary, Soft Cogs and Glencore’s Mt Owen mine.
And, before Rotary’s Thursday night meeting representatives from each organisation handed the donation to a representative from the Singleton Neighbourhood Centre (SNC).
Soft Cogs Kim Nguyen, Mt Owen’s Ashley McLeod were on hand to help Ms Hyam give the large cheque to the Sue George.
Mrs George is president of the Neighbourhood Centre’s management committee and was “blown away” with all the zeros on the cheque. The money will be used to help complete “TheOpenDoor@SNC”, a project that has been years in the making.
Upon completion the SNC shed will feature a laundry, disabled bathroom facilities, toilets, showers and a kitchen, all open to those in need. Ms Hyam says they will continue to support the SNC for the next five years as their charity of choice.
But next year they hope to put the funds towards securing the services of Youth mental health worker, who will operate out of the SNC.
Smaller donations have also been made to community groups that helped out on the day, including the girl guides Mt Olive Hall and Glennies Creek RFS.
“It was a great community effort and many local businesses, like Singleton Sound Solutions and Singleton Hi Fi, also donated some great prizes,” she explains.
“There were not prizes for winning it was not a race, we had a bib draw so everyone was in the running.” She says they are already planning for next year, and want to incorporate a ride for children.