May 10, 2019
Drivers travelling the long road to Burrandowan usually have to be careful … and this Saturday they’re being asked to take extra care.
The reason is that a group of brave cyclists will be taking part in the Kingaroy-to-Burrandowan Cycle Challenge to raise funds for Beyond Blue and raise awareness about depression and anxiety.
The ride has been organised by John Bryant, a keen cyclist who has put the event together in memory of his father, Andrew.
Andrew was a successful gastroenterologist who ran a private practice and provided consulting services at Brisbane’s public hospitals.
But he unexpectedly suicided in 2017.
His family were unaware of the way Andrew was feeling, and were left devastated by the event.
But it fuelled John’s passion to play a part in improving Australian life by spreading the message about the importance of talking about mental health and raising funds for Beyond Blue.
Although he lives in Brisbane, John has been a regular visitor to the South Burnett all his life and is a family friend of Ken and Carolyn Stone, who operate Passchendaele Farm Holidays.
Ken was formerly president of the Burrandowan Race Club, and Carolyn was the club’s secretary for many years so the decision to ride to Burrandowan on race day is no accident.
Sadly, John’s dad never got to see a Burrandowan race meeting due to the pressure of work commitments, but often expressed a wish to attend one.
The cycling challenge will start at 6:00am at the Kumbia Race Club on Saturday, May 11.
Riders will tackle the 53km distance between Kumbia and Burrandowan on Ironpot Road, and hope to arrive at the race track by 9:30am.
The event is free and open to all cyclists but riders will be encouraged to make a donation to Beyond Blue.
There will also be free overnight camping at both race courses.
More information can be found on the Cycle Challenge’s Facebook page
Related articles:
