Graphic: Di Fielding
Two NSW women are venturing into the Australian bush and cycling from Nowra to Nymagee to raise funds for the Royal Flying Doctor Service South Eastern Section.
Twin sisters Dianne and Suzy have been fundraising for the Flying Doctor since 1996 when the service assisted Dianne along with a group of fellow cyclists crossing the Nullabor Plains.
"The Flying Doctor is one of the most trusted charities in Australia and provides life-saving services for people in rural and remote Australia, and we wanted to use our passion for cycling to give back," Dianne said.
Dianne lives in Nowra and Suzy lives in Manly Vale, so the Australian bush is a far cry from home for both of them. Dianne began her cycle from her home in Nowra, riding to Bungendore and then Wallendbeen near Cootamundra where her sister Suzy joined the ride.
"Riding through the bush is wonderful. People talk to you as you travel, often offering you water or a cuppa along the road. When people find out that you are raising money for the Flying Doctor, their doors open, and they are so appreciative of what you are doing."
Dianne and Suzy have already tackled Young, Forbes, Grenfell, Trundle, and Bogan Gate in the state’s Central West. Next on the list is Albert followed by Tullamore, Tottenham, Bobbadah, and Nymagee, all remote areas in New South Wales serviced by the Flying Doctor.
"After Tottenham, we will ride on dirt to the geographical centre of NSW then onto Nymagee, between Condobolin and Cobar, where we will volunteer to assist station owners in a myriad of jobs."Dianne and Suzy say they are looking forward to meeting people of the outback and “raising as much money as we can to make a difference to someone in outback Australia that RFDS cares for."
By the time Dianne and Suzy arrive in Nymagee, they will have cycled over 800km. Currently, the pair are cycling along remote highways between Trundle and Albert and have been staying the night at hotels in the towns they visit to support the local communities.
"We are carrying our tent, sleeping bags, stove, very few clothes and our first aid kit. Generally, we will ride 20-30kms then have a break and something to eat to keep fuelled up. We hope to inspire other women to keep fit, explore new places and achieve their dreams!”
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