NOTE: This story comes with a trigger warning of politician in lycra.
Get ready New Englanders, a pack of pollies are peddling into a town near you this week, raising funds for Wandering Warriors.
The Pollie Pedal 24 is a challenging 1000km ride beginning in Gosford and ending in Port Macquarie, with many New England location on route.
The annual charity ride started back in 1998 by Tony Abbott. Since then, riders have covered more than 24,000km and raised over $7.3 million for various charities.
Upon leaving politics, Mr Abbott has handed over the reins to Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor but remains a key figure and annual participant as patron.
Every kilometre and every pedal push will help Wandering Warriors’ mission to provide education, support and life changing opportunities for our Special Forces veterans and their families.
“It’s a real privilege to be able to support our veterans as they move from military life to civilian life, making sure that they use those incredible skills they’ve built in their time in the military, out in civilian life.” said Taylor.
“A number of veterans will once again join us on this year’s cycle. It’s a privilege to ride with those who have put their lives on the line and served our nation in uniform.”
But Pollie Pedal is about more than just cycling and raising money – it’s about helping regional communities to connect. These interactions are the heart of the ride.
“Pollie Pedal is also a great opportunity to get out of the suit and spend some quality time in regional communities – many of whom are struggling under the rising cost of living.” said Taylor.
“It’s the people you meet and the stories they tell that make Pollie Pedal so special for me.”
“I’m also grateful that volunteer group Rapid Relief Team will be back on board this year to provide us with the coffee and carbs we need to get through the long days in the saddle!”
Pollie Pedal will take place between Sunday Oct 20 – 27. To donate, visit WanderingWarriors.org/Pollie-Pedal.
Where and when with they be here
The group will cycle from Murrurundi to Tamworth on Wednesday, October 23, and Tamworth to Armidale on Thursday, October 24.
Here is a list of roads they will be taking, so be prepared.
October 23 (Murrurundi, Quirindi, Wallabadah)
Mayne Street
New England Highway
Glenyalla Road
Merriwa Road
New England Highway
Kamilaroi Highway
Loder Street
Nelson Street
Hill Street
Henry Street
Dewhurst Street
Wallabadah Road
Maria street
Coach Street
New England Highway
Lindsays Gap Road
Nundle Road
O’Briens Lane
Calala Lane
Goonoo Goonoo Road
The Ringers Road
Goonoo Goonoo Road
Scott Road
Murray St
Marius St
Hall St
October 24 (Tamworth, Moonbi, Bendemeer, Uralla, Armidale)
Kable Ave
Darling St
Marius St
Bligh St
Forest Road
Bowdens Lane
Thornbill Rd
Kingfisher Drv
Upper Moore Creek Road
Moonbi Gap Rd
Charles St
River St
Park Ave
Gill Street
Charles St
New England Highway
Uralla Road
Kentucky Street
Dangar St
Barney St
Marsh St
Something going on in your part of the region you think people should know about? Send us a news tip or email newsdesk@netimes.com.au.