Wheels are in motion for the long-awaited return of the Tatura 200 Charity Bike Ride and Walk.
Following a three-year absence, the well-loved and participated annual event is slated for November 25 after the COVID-19 pandemic hindered its running since 2019.
It features various distances and degrees of difficulty, ranging from a 25km Gears and Graze ride to Longleat Wines at Murchison, a 50km ride, a 100km ride, and the titular 200km ride.
There is also a 10km walk through the heart of Tatura for people who aren’t jumping on the pedals.
The walk and rides will begin at Tatura Italian Social Club, with participants welcome to pace the event at their own leisure.
The Tatura 200 is championed by Tatura Milk Industries and Bega Group, with Hamish Reid, the latter’s Tatura-based executive, glad to see the community fundraiser return.
“A lot of charity activities are focused around capital cities,” he said.
“At Bega, we want to make sure the communities we operate in are supported through great community events such as the Tatura 200.
“One of the major social challenges of our time is domestic violence and the impact on children.
“This year with the support of our customers, suppliers, and other partners, we are raising funds for VincentCare to provide mental health support for women, children and young people impacted by family violence.
“We welcome all members of the community to come and participate, there is something for everyone.”
Since the Tatura 200 first launched in 2008, the event has raised more than $1,000,000 for the local community.
Funds are distributed to local charities and organisations throughout the Goulburn Valley.
Donations will also be made to other deserving groups within the Goulburn Valley, such as Giz a Break, a non-for-profit charity specialising in delivering outdoor-based health promotion initiatives for youth in the Goulburn Valley.
Local community groups who volunteer their time and support the running of the event will also receive funding, including the Rotary Club of Tatura, Tatura Lions Club, Tatura CFA, Kiwanis Sunrisers, Ulysses, and others.