September 3, 2019
If you see more than the usual number of Harleys, Hondas and other assorted motorbikes around Kingaroy, there’s no need to panic … the 350 or so riders are here to raise funds for a good cause.
The Southern Cross Association’s poker run roared into town on Tuesday as part of a charity ride for Spina Bifida Hydrocephalus Qld (SBHQld).
The five-day fundraiser began in Yeppoon on Monday and then headed off to Monto.
After a night stop at Kingaroy Showgrounds, the riders – who are accompanied by a support truck – will head off to Nindigully on Wednesday and then on to Killarney before finishing up in Woodford.
Association president Tom McKinnon said this was the 22nd time the run had been held.
They were last in Kingaroy “six or seven” years ago.
Association treasurer Bill Shead, the former CEO of SBHQld, is taking part in his 15th poker run.
He said that over the years the event had raised more than $600,000 for SBHQld.
The target for this year’s event was $30,000-$40,000.
The oldest rider taking part is former army engineer Kelly Frawley, from Caboolture, who is riding a three-wheel Can-Am Spyder.
Kelly, who is being accompanied on the ride by his son Michael, will be turning 88 in November.
Michael has ridden from Sydney on a Honda Goldwing for the event.
Kelly’s literally an “old hand” at the event … he took part in the very first SCA ride in 1998 which attracted about 45 people and raised $500.
