Bikes will rule the roads as the Combined Riders of Wagga Wagga gather for their annual Toy Run. Photo: Supplied.
With Christmas celebrations just weeks away, the Combined Riders of Wagga Wagga are gearing up for the annual toy run on 7 December.
The local riders turn out in force every year to put a smile on the faces of some of our kids who are doing it tough.
Coordinator Diane Middleton said that the combined riders were an eclectic bunch that included individuals with a motorbike through to groups like the popular Ulysses Club.
“We raise funds every year to buy toys for children in need at Christmas time,” Diane explained.
“We only do the ride in December each year, so we’re active for about six months of the year doing the fundraising and planning.
“We usually get around about 200 riders each year and we can have anything from old vintage bikes right through to the modern, you-beaut, latest thing.”
The Combined Riders of Wagga Wagga will get into the festive spirit as they gather for their annual Toy Run. Photo: Supplied.
Riders are expected to bring a donation of either money or new, unopened toys that are not wrapped so that they can be distributed appropriately.
“We source the toys, then they get distributed by St Vincent de Paul and the Salvation Army and then the culmination of the whole thing is a motorcycle ride throughout the suburbs of Wagga Wagga,” she said.
The annual Toy Run helps to make sure that no kids miss out this Christmas. Photo: Supplied.
The ride has been going for around two decades and is a highlight for many local riders who deck out their machines in tinsel and reindeer horns and slip something festive on over their riding gear.
Rudolf, elves and even a few Santas are expected to make an appearance again this year.
“We’re all meeting at Jubilee oval between 7 am and 8:30 for stands up at nine o’clock and then the toy run finishes at The Playhouse Theatre car park on Cross Street at around 12:15 pm where the Salvation Army will have a free sausage sizzle,” Diane said.
“We’ll also have a lucky rider prize and there’s a major raffle as well.”
Diane said it was a great chance for locals to share their love of motorcycling, meet other riders and do something positive for the community.
“It’s a really great day and we see such good support from the riders and from our big sponsors and some of the great local businesses around town.
The Combined Riders Wagga Wagga Toy Run on 7 December is open to anyone who rides and you can RSVP through Facebook.
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