Motorcycle rider Ric Stalenberg summed up the spirit of Wollongong’s annual Bikers Toy Run, saying it helps children in need “escape their world” even if only for a few minutes.
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Saturday was the Figtree resident’s first Wollongong charity run, though he’s participated for over a decade in Adelaide before moving into the Illawarra two years ago.
“My partner’s a child protection specialist so I hear a lot of really ugly stories.
“[It’s an] opportunity to do something for someone that’s struggling and not doing so well,” Mr Stalenberg said, trying not to well up with tears.
“In the theme of being able to escape whatever’s happening, I got a 30 centimetre Iron Man and a 30 centimetre Wonder Woman doll.”
He hoped the superheroes would be an inspiration to whoever receives them at Christmas.
More than 120 bikers took part in the 27th annual ride, some dressed as elves or sesame street characters and all proud to be riding high on two – or some three – wheels with the goal of bringing joy to a young person at Christmas.
“It’s always good to put a smile on some small child’s face that wouldn’t normally have there,” said motorbike rider Wart, who’s been part of the Wollongong run for 12 years.
The brigade left Shellharbour with an array of gifts en route for Wollongong’s Crown Street Mall, the Giving Tree the final stop.
“[It’s] for all those families that are doing it tough, it’s an opportunity to share the love around,” Wollongong Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery said, who rode in on the back of Mr Stalenbergs bike.
A self-confessed “old biker” who likes the wind in his hair, Cr Bradbery said the toy run showed riders came in all shapes and sizes.
“Including people who you’d never think would ride a bike and get into leather,” he said.
Toys were brought in from individuals and on behalf of groups and ranged from teddy bears to games and gift vouchers. They’ll be distributed to children in need through the St Vincent de Paul Society and Anglicare.
This is the sixth year Jeff Rice has coordinated the event with the Leisure Coast Motorcycle Riders club, which even managed to get Santa.
“It was hard to get him from the North pole, he came kicking and screaming because he’s so busy but we got him here,” Mr Rice said.
He admitted there were concerns Mother Nature may not play nicely with a few spots of rain before they set off, but said it turned out well in the end.
Unwrapped presents or gift cards can still be donated to the Giving Tree , suitable for children aged 0 to 16 years, until December 19 by visiting Council’s Customer Service area, 41 Burelli Street, Wollongong.