The Pollie Pedal cycled through Canowindra on Thursday, making a quick pit stop on Gaskill Street to say hello to the locals. The riders, which included Kevin Andrews, Angus Taylor and Tony Abbott, stopped at Canowindra and Eugowra while making their way from Forbes to Orange on the fifth day of their eight day journey.
Since 1998, Pollie Pedal has travelled around 17,500 kilometres for charity, allowing Members of Parliament to meet people from all walks of life while raising money for important causes. This is the fifth year that Pollie Pedal has supported Carers Australia, the national peak body that represents Australia’s invisible army of carers.
Australia wide there are over two and a half million people that are committed to caring full time. These people are often unpaid and often have to provide care in difficult circumstances. Carers provide support to family members and friends who have a disability, mental illness, chronic condition, terminal illness, alcohol or drug issues or who are frail or elderly.
The politicians left Canberra last Sunday, travelling over 1000 kilometres through regional New South Wales and Tony Abbott was showing signs of long hours in the saddle, looking distinctly bow legged as he tottered in Taste Canowindra for a coffee. After the cyclists were revived they hopped back onto their bikes and got ready to face the steep inclines of the Orange road, waving as they went by. Federal Member for Calare, John Cobb, was waiting in Robertson Park in Orange to greet them. “This is a great opportunity to have a conversation about the issues facing carers and recognise the important role they play in our community’s health system” Mr Cobb said.
So far cyclists have collectively managed to raise $27,295, well done to all who have taken part.