After a half hour sleep in this morning and a feed of pancakes, we all got together for a photo - Everyone who had had been affected by the "Apocalypse" was on one side and everyone who survived the Apocalypse was on the other. Over the time of the Ride, 14 people had gotten sick and we are so grateful to our two wonderful Doctors - Doc Renee and Doc Ally for getting everyone through to the other side.
All the riders then got on their bikes and were ready to head off for the last day of riding together. They have a stop over in Branxton and then they will roll down the highway to head to Warners Bay where all their family and friends will be awaiting their arrival.
Stay tuned for more information once we arrive home
Sunday, 11 September 2016
Saturday, 10 September 2016
Day 7- Family Night
Everyone arrived into Singleton to lots of their family cheering them on in Singleton. Tonight is family night and lots of families have come along to spend the afternoon and have dinner with us.
There are meat pies and cakes galore as everyone enjoys Harry's Day lunch together to celebrate the life of Harry. Everyone has bonded so well together and have so enjoyed having Dean and Sarah along on the road today.
For the last night of the ride, all the riders are asked to vote for the person they would like to award the Special Jerseys to as overall winners of the Jerseys for the whole ride. These people get to keep the Jerseys.Special Jersey Winners:-
Support Crew Joker Jersey - Judy Dench
Support Crew Most Supportive Jersey - the beautiful Sara
Rider Joker Jersey - Luke
Rider Most Supportive Jersey - Nathan
Rider King of the Mountain Jersey - Mick B
The Winner of the No. 1 Spot and the Team that will ride into Warners Bay first is Team Poles and Underground.
A massive Happy Birthday to our lovely Trish who has once again celebrated her birthday on the Ride with us.
Fines
The Fine Master was on fire tonight because it was his last night. I was given permission by the original Fine Master to fine the new Fine Master so we all had fun handing out fines to him, including his wife Sue.
Well it's been a long but really fun day - we are all about to go to bed so will chat with you again tomorrow !Donna. x
Day 7 - Team Harry Day
After a fun night with our regifting auction, everyone was up bright and early this morning and ready to embrace our second last day together.
From that day onwards the green team became "Team Harry" and each year on Harry's anniversary Sarah and Dean ride with us and we have a "Harry Day". Harry's favourite colour was green and his favourite food was pies. So today all riders are wearing green ribbons and when they get in for lunch today we will celebrate Harry with his family by having a feast of pies (savory and sweet) for lunch.
The Dunn Family are much loved members of the CQ Family and we feel honoued to share this day with them.
B1 and B2 had the coffee machine up and running, Brad and Clive were on he BBQ and the support crew gang were busy organising toast and cereals, washing up and generally making sure everything was ready to go.
Today is a special day. Today is "Harry's Day" - a day that we officially recognise and celebrate every year on every ride. Four years ago on our second Bike Ride, Dean Dunn was with us as a rider when he got a call from Sarah to say their son Harry had been involved in a bus accident. Brad drove Dean home from Glen Innes to be with his family but unfortunately Harry passed away. It was such a tragic loss for the Dunn Family and for all our riders and support crew it really hit hard.
From that day onwards the green team became "Team Harry" and each year on Harry's anniversary Sarah and Dean ride with us and we have a "Harry Day". Harry's favourite colour was green and his favourite food was pies. So today all riders are wearing green ribbons and when they get in for lunch today we will celebrate Harry with his family by having a feast of pies (savory and sweet) for lunch.
The Dunn Family are much loved members of the CQ Family and we feel honoued to share this day with them.
The riders are on the road now, being led our by Team Harry and heading to Sandy Hollow for their first stop for the day. Then they are off to Muswellbrook for a lunch stop. Stay tuned for more blog updates later.
Donna.
Friday, 9 September 2016
Day 6 - Regifting Auction Night
After visiting the Merriwa Public School, the riders all rolled into our accommodation and to a great spread put on once again by our amazing Supply Van.
Everyone lay around talking about the day, eating and drinking before massages and showers started.Today had been an exceptionally hard day for Ross. He has not been well and today he said there were two times that he just wanted to get off the bike and give up but because of all the help he got from all the riders continually supporting him, feeding him jellybeans and making him drink, he made it into Merriwa with everyone else. He was so grateful and stood up to thank everyone. He and his business partner Chis then announced that they were going to pick up the tab for all the drinks tonight - thanks so much Virtual Roster, that is so very generous of you.
This is what I love about this Ride, everyone works together as one team, no matter your ability or how you are feeling that day, nobody is left behind and everyone is carried over the finish line.
We were treated to a great meal at the Hotel which was then followed by the presentation of Special Jerseys and Fines.
Special Jerseys for tonight:-
Joker Jersey
Support Crew - Bec - took off too quick in the car and flicked dust in the riders eyed
Michael B - got a flat tyre, got it fixed and then tyre blew out
King of the Mountain - Ross - despite being sick and wanting to get off the bike twice, he persisted and did it
Most Supportive Jersey
Tonight this went to the Supply Van and Coffee Van girls - Kath, Maree and Judy Dench who get up at 4.30 am each morning to make sure the van is charged, constantly organising food, going shopping, sorting snacks, etc.For the Riders there was two winners - Simon Mead won this jersey as he spent lots of time today with Ross helping him
Also Damian Charleson won as he is a massive supporter of Camp Quality all year around, only missed one year of the ride, he donates the Ark and sleep van to use every year and sponsors a Team as well.
On Road challenge winners -
Downhill winner - Housie
Uphill winner - Pappy
Team Belmore Hotel won the team challenge based on timings
No 1 Team for tomorrow - Team Harry
Fines:Luke for bringing his own outfit for Miss Muswellbrook
Brad for locking Donna in the car
Shane W - dropped a lolly at school and picked it up and ate it
Doc Ally - lost her keys
King had a flat
Sue - talking double Dutch on the radio - 7 fines
Paul S - sin bin for back chatting
Scott - falling off stage and giving Publican a heart attack
Simon Morris then stood up and told us a bit about his cancer journey and his time with Camp Quality.
After this it was time for the "Re-Gifting Auction". Luke kindly took on the role of our guest Auctioneer and did an awesome job. One man's trash truly is another man's treasure! Everyone was so generous and we raised around $3,300.00 from this event. Thanks so much everyone for participating.
Well another day draws to a close and tomorrow we hit Day 7 of the Ride.
Talk to you all again tomorrow.
Donna.
Day 6 - Muswellbrook to Merriwa
After the funniest night ever, everyone was up bright and early this morning and ready to go.
Support Crew had a light breakfast out for everyone as we were then pedaling a few ks down the road to Aberdeen to meet up with some long term supporters and old friends the Aberdeen Lions Club. They have been supporting us for many years and always put on an awesome breakfast for everyone.
Besides providing all the breakfast for everyone, they also presented us with a cheque for $500.00 - wow such generous people.
Then it was time to jump back on the bikes and make our way to Scone Primary School where 515 excited kids were awaiting our arrival.
We were made very welcome and were even welcomed to the School by the Mayor.
A couple of funny questions from the kids to the riders:-
Do you stop for lunch or do you have to have that at breakfast too ?
How many hours will it take to get home?
How do you balance on such thin tyres?
Do you all stay in a group when you ride?
When do you shave ?
They are now on their way to Bunnan for lunch supplied by our incredible support rew and then they will be back on their bikes and heading to Merriwa Public School before finishing for the day.
Blog again soon,
Donna.
Support Crew had a light breakfast out for everyone as we were then pedaling a few ks down the road to Aberdeen to meet up with some long term supporters and old friends the Aberdeen Lions Club. They have been supporting us for many years and always put on an awesome breakfast for everyone.
Besides providing all the breakfast for everyone, they also presented us with a cheque for $500.00 - wow such generous people.
Then it was time to jump back on the bikes and make our way to Scone Primary School where 515 excited kids were awaiting our arrival.
We were made very welcome and were even welcomed to the School by the Mayor.
A couple of funny questions from the kids to the riders:-
Do you stop for lunch or do you have to have that at breakfast too ?
How many hours will it take to get home?
How do you balance on such thin tyres?
Do you all stay in a group when you ride?
When do you shave ?
They are now on their way to Bunnan for lunch supplied by our incredible support rew and then they will be back on their bikes and heading to Merriwa Public School before finishing for the day.
Blog again soon,
Donna.
Thursday, 8 September 2016
Miss Muswellbrook 2016
Oh boy what a funny night we have had !
Tonight we hosted Miss Muswellbrook - all the contestants really embraced the fun of the event and actually seemed to really enjoy dressing up. Luke in particular was not keen at all to get out of his dressups !
The Joker Jersey for Support Crew - special nomination for Carol for losing the Ark keys
the winner was Doc Ali who got google maps to take her to the gym - it took her right into town but the map was wrong and the gym was actually just across the road.
Most Supportive Jersey - presented to Don and Trish who pitch in wherever needed, were ferrying sick people, doing washing off site, etc.
The Rider's Joker Jersey went to Nugget who fell off a stationery bike
The King of the Mountain Jersey went to Michael O who helped stew, was at the front today and been an all round quiet achiever
The Most Supportive Jersey went to Jarrod - always available to help, he gets whatever needs done, he helped Rochelle get ready for the ride and he has still been riding even when not feeling well
The Team Challenge winner and wearing the No 1 - Team Raw Toast
The L Plate award was given out for the first time this ride to Simon Mead and Fatty
Fines:
Bec - for having the breathalyser the wrong way
Nugget - littering - left skin on the road
Shane W - making weird noises while having a massage
Brad - having the wrong shirt on
Kerry - said Farty instead of Fatty over the radio
Housie - just because !
Tonight we hosted Miss Muswellbrook - all the contestants really embraced the fun of the event and actually seemed to really enjoy dressing up. Luke in particular was not keen at all to get out of his dressups !
The boys had to dress up and come out on stage, tells us about themselves and perform their special talent - was the funniest thing ever.
Clive got an honourable mention, Luke was third, Chris was second and Scotty got first and was in turn given the much sought after honour of being crowned Miss Muswellbrook 2016.
Thanks for the laughs guys.
Special Jerseys
The Joker Jersey for Support Crew - special nomination for Carol for losing the Ark keysthe winner was Doc Ali who got google maps to take her to the gym - it took her right into town but the map was wrong and the gym was actually just across the road.
Most Supportive Jersey - presented to Don and Trish who pitch in wherever needed, were ferrying sick people, doing washing off site, etc.
The Rider's Joker Jersey went to Nugget who fell off a stationery bike
The King of the Mountain Jersey went to Michael O who helped stew, was at the front today and been an all round quiet achiever
The Most Supportive Jersey went to Jarrod - always available to help, he gets whatever needs done, he helped Rochelle get ready for the ride and he has still been riding even when not feeling well
The Team Challenge winner and wearing the No 1 - Team Raw Toast
The L Plate award was given out for the first time this ride to Simon Mead and Fatty
Fines:
Bec - for having the breathalyser the wrong way
Nugget - littering - left skin on the road
Shane W - making weird noises while having a massage
Brad - having the wrong shirt on
Kerry - said Farty instead of Fatty over the radio
Housie - just because !
Another fun day had by everyone - talk to you all tomorrow.
Donna.
Day 5 .... Gresford to Muswellbrook
What a lovely morning we had visiting St. Catherine's School at Singleton.The lovely Sarah Dunn had organised a big Welcome Camp quality cake and some pies for everyone when they got in.
They were all wearin their Team Harry shirts and we got an awesome shot of everyone on Harry's Climb.
The Dunn Family have become such a special part of the Camp quality Family since Dean was on our Ride three years ago and his son Harry was tragically killed.
Now each year we honor Harry and his Family by calling our Green Team "Team Harry".
Once we had all eaten we then went it with all the kids from the School to watch the puppet show and the kids really participated well as did their Teachers, one in particular being chosen to get up and help show the power of positivity through her dance moves - thanks for being a part of the Show everyone.
Then it was time for everyone to get back on their bikes and start making their way into Muswellbrook.
We are so excited that Ross, Dishpig, Tony and Karissa are well again and have re-joined us.
We are off to meet up with the lovely Muswellbrook Lioness Ladies !
Blog again soon,
Donna.
Day 4 - Karaoke Night
Sorry for no blogging last night, but the evil bug took hold of me and I was sent to bed. What a night to be down and out - KARAOKE NIGHT !!!!
It seems there was lots of fun had by everyone. A few highlights were:-
A smashing rendition of "Who let the dogs out" by rappers D & G (Don and Big G) !
A moving performance of "somewhere over the rainbow" sung by Team Belmore Hotel in kermit voices and green glasses.
Fairy King singing his usual most requested Ice Ice Baby
Everyone in the Hotel (riders, support crew, locals and guests) all dressing up and dancing to YMCA
It was a great night with everyone getting very involved and really enjoying themselves.
Special Jerseys were won by:-
Joker Jersey - Kerry for his "side of the road" antics and dress ups whilst being in the Fun Therapy Car yesterday
Most Supportive Jersey - Housie for taking on the captain role with Tony out and helping out wherever he was asked.
Most supportive Jersey for Support Crew - Paul and Shane for being extremely helpful in so many ways both on and off the road.
King of the Mountain Jersey - Mick B who has only been riding this year, is one of the oldest on the trips and got to the top of the bingleburras first
Big G had lots of fines to give out including one for myself. Yesterday when I was sitting around blogging I was eating some Lolly Gobble Bliss Bombs and unfortunately pulled out my filling and swollowed it. I now only have half a tooth and have had to make an appointment for Thursday morning in Singleton to get it fixed !
Talk soon,
Donna.
It seems there was lots of fun had by everyone. A few highlights were:-
A smashing rendition of "Who let the dogs out" by rappers D & G (Don and Big G) !
A moving performance of "somewhere over the rainbow" sung by Team Belmore Hotel in kermit voices and green glasses.
Fairy King singing his usual most requested Ice Ice Baby
Everyone in the Hotel (riders, support crew, locals and guests) all dressing up and dancing to YMCA
It was a great night with everyone getting very involved and really enjoying themselves.
Special Jerseys were won by:-
Joker Jersey - Kerry for his "side of the road" antics and dress ups whilst being in the Fun Therapy Car yesterday
Most Supportive Jersey - Housie for taking on the captain role with Tony out and helping out wherever he was asked.
Most supportive Jersey for Support Crew - Paul and Shane for being extremely helpful in so many ways both on and off the road.
King of the Mountain Jersey - Mick B who has only been riding this year, is one of the oldest on the trips and got to the top of the bingleburras first
Big G had lots of fines to give out including one for myself. Yesterday when I was sitting around blogging I was eating some Lolly Gobble Bliss Bombs and unfortunately pulled out my filling and swollowed it. I now only have half a tooth and have had to make an appointment for Thursday morning in Singleton to get it fixed !
Talk soon,
Donna.
Wednesday, 7 September 2016
Day 4 - Gloucester to East Gresford
What an amazing bunch of people we have on our 1,000 K's 4 Kids Tour de Hunter. All up we had 13 people come down with "the outbreak". All of them are almost back on track now - some have rejoined us and the rest are joining us tomorrow. Everyone has been so supportive and helping each other in so many ways.
Karissa had to go home due to sickness and Shari, Kerry, Paul and Nick had all been sick so they were put into the one car for the day - the Fun Therapy Car. The guys really stepped up and got into the spirit of the ride providing lots of great dress ups on the side of the road to keep everyone's spirits up on what was a really tough day.
After an incredible breakfast from the Gloucester Lions Club this morning everyone hit the road. The riders conquered 90 kms today with lots of climbing of hills - ups and downs all day.
We visited Stroud Road School with a total of 20 kids. They had a "Wear Your PJ's to School Day" to support Camp Quality and we all had a lovely time visiting with them.
We then left there and headed to Dungog Public School where our amazing Supply Van (Kath and Maree) had a great lunch set up for everyone. We stayed for the Puppet Show and to chat with the kids and then it was time to hit the road again to tackle the Bingleburras. Our amazing Puppeteers stayed on in Dungog to taking the Puppet Show to St. Joseph's at Dungog.
Meanwhile the Logistics Van and Don and Trish had arrived in East Gresford at The Beatty Hotel to get set up for the night. It is very cosy accommodation with very few beds available so we needed lots of blow up beds ready to go.
Everyone is now sitting around outside in the sun catching up on the day, sharing a drink together. Support Crew are busy washing all the jerseys and knicks, blogging, banking and doing whatever else needs to be done to be ready to go again tomorrow.
We have several family members who have come to visit this afternoon and we are all excited about Karaoke tonight. Stay tuned for more updates a bit later.
Donna.
PS - not enough email to post photos so they are coming later.
Karissa had to go home due to sickness and Shari, Kerry, Paul and Nick had all been sick so they were put into the one car for the day - the Fun Therapy Car. The guys really stepped up and got into the spirit of the ride providing lots of great dress ups on the side of the road to keep everyone's spirits up on what was a really tough day.
After an incredible breakfast from the Gloucester Lions Club this morning everyone hit the road. The riders conquered 90 kms today with lots of climbing of hills - ups and downs all day.
We visited Stroud Road School with a total of 20 kids. They had a "Wear Your PJ's to School Day" to support Camp Quality and we all had a lovely time visiting with them.
We then left there and headed to Dungog Public School where our amazing Supply Van (Kath and Maree) had a great lunch set up for everyone. We stayed for the Puppet Show and to chat with the kids and then it was time to hit the road again to tackle the Bingleburras. Our amazing Puppeteers stayed on in Dungog to taking the Puppet Show to St. Joseph's at Dungog.
Meanwhile the Logistics Van and Don and Trish had arrived in East Gresford at The Beatty Hotel to get set up for the night. It is very cosy accommodation with very few beds available so we needed lots of blow up beds ready to go.
Everyone is now sitting around outside in the sun catching up on the day, sharing a drink together. Support Crew are busy washing all the jerseys and knicks, blogging, banking and doing whatever else needs to be done to be ready to go again tomorrow.
We have several family members who have come to visit this afternoon and we are all excited about Karaoke tonight. Stay tuned for more updates a bit later.
Donna.
PS - not enough email to post photos so they are coming later.
Tuesday, 6 September 2016
Day 3 ....
An awesome meal at the Gloucester Roundabout Inn - baked chicken and pork dinner - yum !
Still got some sick people, but they are being well looked after by our amazing Doc Renee and Doc Ally.
The Fine Master had lots of fines to hand out tonight.
The lovely Rose got the Most Supportive Jersey for always being so caring and supportive and for stepping into Todd's role on the road.
Clive won the Joker Jersey as he didn't know which way to come into Gloucester and may have accidentally run over some cement barricades ! He was blaming Sara !
Troy was given the King of the Mountain jersey - even though he is not built for hills he is a quiet achiever and did really well on the hills all day.
Chris won the Joker Jersey after waving goodbye to all the School kids and then falling off the bike in front of them as he did it.
The Most Supportive Jersey for the Support Crew went to three people tonight. With lots of people being out sick the amazing Support Crew just stepped up and took on extra jobs to make it all run smoothly. In particular the lovely Bec needed to run Command Car on her own and did an awesome job.
The Most Supportive Jerseys for the Support Crew also went to our amazing Doctors - Doc Renee and Doc Ally after they spent all day looking after everyone involved in the "outbreak" today.
Thanks so much Docs !
For all our riders and support crew members who are at home or sick - take care and come back very soon.
Donna.
Still got some sick people, but they are being well looked after by our amazing Doc Renee and Doc Ally.
The Fine Master had lots of fines to hand out tonight.
The lovely Rose got the Most Supportive Jersey for always being so caring and supportive and for stepping into Todd's role on the road.
Clive won the Joker Jersey as he didn't know which way to come into Gloucester and may have accidentally run over some cement barricades ! He was blaming Sara !
Troy was given the King of the Mountain jersey - even though he is not built for hills he is a quiet achiever and did really well on the hills all day.
Chris won the Joker Jersey after waving goodbye to all the School kids and then falling off the bike in front of them as he did it.
The Most Supportive Jersey for the Support Crew went to three people tonight. With lots of people being out sick the amazing Support Crew just stepped up and took on extra jobs to make it all run smoothly. In particular the lovely Bec needed to run Command Car on her own and did an awesome job.The Most Supportive Jerseys for the Support Crew also went to our amazing Doctors - Doc Renee and Doc Ally after they spent all day looking after everyone involved in the "outbreak" today.
Thanks so much Docs !
Tomorrow the Yellow Team will wear the No. 1 as they are the only Team who still have all their members standing - all two of them (King and Fatty).
For all our riders and support crew members who are at home or sick - take care and come back very soon.
Donna.
Day 3 ....
An awesome meal at the Gloucester Roundabout Inn - baked chicken and pork dinner - yum !
Still got some sick people, but they are being well looked after by our amazing Doc Renee and Doc Ally.
The Fine Master had lots of fines to hand out tonight.
The lovely Rose got the Most Supportive Jersey for always being so caring and supportive and for stepping into Todd's role on the road.
Clive won the Joker Jersey as he didn't know which way to come into Gloucester and may have accidentally run over some cement barricades ! He was blaming Sara !
Troy was given the King of the Mountain jersey - even though he is not built for hills he is a quiet achiever and did really well on the hills all day.
Chris won the Joker Jersey after waving goodbye to all the School kids and then falling off the bike in front of them as he did it.
The Most Supportive Jersey for the Support Crew went to three people tonight. With lots of people being out sick the amazing Support Crew just stepped up and took on extra jobs to make it all run smoothly. In particular the lovely Bec needed to run Command Car on her own and did an awesome job.
The Most Supportive Jerseys for the Support Crew also went to our amazing Doctors - Doc Renee and Doc Ally after they spent all day looking after everyone involved in the "outbreak" today.
Thanks so much Docs !
For all our riders and support crew members who are at home or sick - take care and come back very soon.
Donna.
Still got some sick people, but they are being well looked after by our amazing Doc Renee and Doc Ally.
The Fine Master had lots of fines to hand out tonight.
The lovely Rose got the Most Supportive Jersey for always being so caring and supportive and for stepping into Todd's role on the road.
Clive won the Joker Jersey as he didn't know which way to come into Gloucester and may have accidentally run over some cement barricades ! He was blaming Sara !
Troy was given the King of the Mountain jersey - even though he is not built for hills he is a quiet achiever and did really well on the hills all day.
Chris won the Joker Jersey after waving goodbye to all the School kids and then falling off the bike in front of them as he did it.
The Most Supportive Jersey for the Support Crew went to three people tonight. With lots of people being out sick the amazing Support Crew just stepped up and took on extra jobs to make it all run smoothly. In particular the lovely Bec needed to run Command Car on her own and did an awesome job.The Most Supportive Jerseys for the Support Crew also went to our amazing Doctors - Doc Renee and Doc Ally after they spent all day looking after everyone involved in the "outbreak" today.
Thanks so much Docs !
Tomorrow the Yellow Team will wear the No. 1 as they are the only Team who still have all their members standing - all two of them (King and Fatty).
For all our riders and support crew members who are at home or sick - take care and come back very soon.
Donna.
Day 3 ....
An awesome meal at the Gloucester Roundabout Inn - baked chicken and pork dinner - yum !
Still got some sick people, but they are being well looked after by our amazing Doc Renee and Doc Ally.
The Fine Master had lots of fines to hand out tonight.
The lovely Rose got the Most Supportive Jersey for always being so caring and supportive and for stepping into Todd's role on the road.
Clive won the Joker Jersey as he didn't know which way to come into Gloucester and may have accidentally run over some cement barricades ! He was blaming Sara !
Troy was given the King of the Mountain jersey - even though he is not built for hills he is a quiet achiever and did really well on the hills all day.
Chris won the Joker Jersey after waving goodbye to all the School kids and then falling off the bike in front of them as he did it.
The Most Supportive Jersey for the Support Crew went to three people tonight. With lots of people being out sick the amazing Support Crew just stepped up and took on extra jobs to make it all run smoothly. In particular the lovely Bec needed to run Command Car on her own and did an awesome job.
The Most Supportive Jerseys for the Support Crew also went to our amazing Doctors - Doc Renee and Doc Ally after they spent all day looking after everyone involved in the "outbreak" today.
Thanks so much Docs !
For all our riders and support crew members who are at home or sick - take care and come back very soon.
Donna.
Still got some sick people, but they are being well looked after by our amazing Doc Renee and Doc Ally.
The Fine Master had lots of fines to hand out tonight.
The lovely Rose got the Most Supportive Jersey for always being so caring and supportive and for stepping into Todd's role on the road.
Clive won the Joker Jersey as he didn't know which way to come into Gloucester and may have accidentally run over some cement barricades ! He was blaming Sara !
Troy was given the King of the Mountain jersey - even though he is not built for hills he is a quiet achiever and did really well on the hills all day.
Chris won the Joker Jersey after waving goodbye to all the School kids and then falling off the bike in front of them as he did it.
The Most Supportive Jersey for the Support Crew went to three people tonight. With lots of people being out sick the amazing Support Crew just stepped up and took on extra jobs to make it all run smoothly. In particular the lovely Bec needed to run Command Car on her own and did an awesome job.The Most Supportive Jerseys for the Support Crew also went to our amazing Doctors - Doc Renee and Doc Ally after they spent all day looking after everyone involved in the "outbreak" today.
Thanks so much Docs !
Tomorrow the Yellow Team will wear the No. 1 as they are the only Team who still have all their members standing - all two of them (King and Fatty).
For all our riders and support crew members who are at home or sick - take care and come back very soon.
Donna.
Day 3 ... Pacific Palms to Gloucesteru
After a lovely night together everyone was up bright and early this morning with the Support Crew cooking up heaps of awesome pancakes for everyone.
Unfortunately a bug has gone through the Team and we are about 5 riders and 4 support crew down, we have had to send some people home (for just a while), quarantine some in their rooms and Glen 20 and Aquium is rife at the moment !!
This also meant that unfortunately we couldn't visit two of the Schools today and just a couple of our riders went to one of them (Krambach School) where they were treated to an amazing morning tea. Thanks to our amazing Puppeteers for carrying on without us and making sure all the kids had an awesome day.
Everyone is now in Gloucester at the Roundabout Inn and they are either tucked up in bed having a rest, having a well earned drink and enjoying each other's company.
What an amazing bunch of people they are - with all that is going on they are still supporting each other, giving each other lots of stick (ha ha) and helping each other out with whatever is required. We are 4 Support Crew out and all the others are just getting in and doing what needs to be done to make things happen. I am so proud of them all.
I will be back in touch again tonight,
Until then,
Donna.
Monday, 5 September 2016
Day 2 all done
The riders had a lovely visit to the small school of Bungwahl. Shari really enjoyed the visit and when it was time for questions one little boy put his hand up and asked Shari for her phone number - it was so cute !After 110 kms pedalling all the riders arrived safely to the Pacific Palms Caravan Park. It had been a long day of supporting each other through all the ups and downs but together as one team they all came in together.
Our wonderful Kath, B1 and B2 and Trish and Don were busy setting up food and drinks for everyone. Everyone sat around for most of the afternoon enjoying each others company and reminiscing about the day.
Brad and Big G cooked an awesome BBQ (with Clivey supervising) and we all enjoyed dinner together before the Special Jerseys and Fines were started.Tonights Special Jerseys went to:-
Support Crew:
Marmong Point Marina Joker Jersey - Sue (Judy Dench) for making Brad's hot chocolate on chocolate sprinkles rather than hot chocolate
Keith Lawrence Most Supportive Jersey - Sara for not only doing the radio all day in the Front Car but then as soon as she gets in massaging all afternoon - You Rock Sara !
Riders:
Marmong Point Marina Joker Jersey - "Fancy Pants" Todd for having a big night in SA, missing a step and doing an ACL - not even falling off a bike !
Jayco Newcastle King of the Mountain Jersey - Tim had his knee strapped for the past couple of days and has still soldiered on and conquered all the hills along the way.
Keith Lawrence Most Supportive Jersey - Nathan for supporting heaps of people on the road today.
Winning Team tonight is Team CSA who will wear the No. 1 tomorrow.
Big G then handed out his fines -Doc A - for having no name on her bag !
Shane W - for parking his bike in the veggie patch at the School
Pappy - for popping a wheel stand
Housie - for hitting Gaz's bike with his
Shane & Daz - for doing the YMCA hands free - naughty !
Clive - for using a seat as a see saw at the school
Another great day had by all and tomorrow we get to sleep in by 1/2 hour - very exciting - up at 6.00 a.m. instead of 5.30 a.m. - WINNING !
Talk tomorrow
Donna.
Day 2 .... Pedal Power
Hi Everyone,
Well we all arrived at Bulahdelah safe and sound and were treated to an incredible lunch. The local butcher, Wayne "Wacko" Barry had cooked some beef for us and there was a big pot of gravy, fresh bread rolls and coleslaw - it was so good, it just melted in your mouth. Wacko has been a rider on a previous Ride and he and his family are great supporters of Camp Quality.
Once everyone was full we all went into the School Hall to watch the Puppeteers perform the Camp Quality Puppet Show. It was so great to see all the kids laughing at the crazy shenanigans of Kylie and Dean whilst learning some great anti-bullying lessons, learning about how you can't catch cancer and about the power of positivity.
The kids at the Bulahdelah Public School had a yellow ribbon and crazy sock day and held a raffle to raise funds for us which was just awesome. They had lots of questions to ask the riders and were really interactive with everyone.
One of the kids at the School is also a member of the Camp Quality family. Sophie did us a beautiful glittery picture of the yellow ribbon of hope which was just beautiful. Thanks Sophie, we love it.
It was then time for the riders to get back on their bikes to make their way to Bungwahl Public School where 38 kids were eagerly awaiting their arrival.
While that is happening, we are off to Pacific Palms to get everything ready for their arrival as I am sure they will all be very tired when they arrive hopefully around 3.00 p.m.
Will post again tonight - thanks for reading and don't forget to leave us a "Message of Support".
Donna.
Well we all arrived at Bulahdelah safe and sound and were treated to an incredible lunch. The local butcher, Wayne "Wacko" Barry had cooked some beef for us and there was a big pot of gravy, fresh bread rolls and coleslaw - it was so good, it just melted in your mouth. Wacko has been a rider on a previous Ride and he and his family are great supporters of Camp Quality.
Once everyone was full we all went into the School Hall to watch the Puppeteers perform the Camp Quality Puppet Show. It was so great to see all the kids laughing at the crazy shenanigans of Kylie and Dean whilst learning some great anti-bullying lessons, learning about how you can't catch cancer and about the power of positivity.
The kids at the Bulahdelah Public School had a yellow ribbon and crazy sock day and held a raffle to raise funds for us which was just awesome. They had lots of questions to ask the riders and were really interactive with everyone.
One of the kids at the School is also a member of the Camp Quality family. Sophie did us a beautiful glittery picture of the yellow ribbon of hope which was just beautiful. Thanks Sophie, we love it.
It was then time for the riders to get back on their bikes to make their way to Bungwahl Public School where 38 kids were eagerly awaiting their arrival.
While that is happening, we are off to Pacific Palms to get everything ready for their arrival as I am sure they will all be very tired when they arrive hopefully around 3.00 p.m.
Will post again tonight - thanks for reading and don't forget to leave us a "Message of Support".
Donna.
Day 2 Dungog to Pacific Palms
After a chilly night in Dungog following awesome hospitality and food provided by Settlors Arms Hotel, the Support Crew were up bright and early to greet the wonderful Dungog Lions Club who had come to cook us a hot breakfast of bacon, egg and sausage rolls. B1 and B2 forgot to set the timer correctly for the coffee van so the coffee line up got fairly long as we waited for the water to heat. Eventually everyone got their coffee and the girls did a great job for their first go.
Sunday, 4 September 2016
Day 1 ... Jerseys and Fines
Each night on the Ride the riders and support crew nominate who they would like our "Special Jerseys" to go to. Tonight these went to:-
Support Crew - The Marmong Point Marina Joker Jersey
The Keith Lawrence Most Supportive Jersey for Riders went to the fearless leader of Team Raw Toast - Gary Ekert. Not only is Gary's business our Platinum Sponsor but he has also raised the most funds overall, runs the Rock on the River for CQ every year, has had 4 members of his family previously participate in the Ride and now has more family members on the Ride this year and after raising over $32,000.00 also made another substantial donation on Friday - thank you Gaz, the generosity of you and your family is overwhelming.
Pappy had to pay for his dad - Poppy Pappy - for talking over Donna
Support Crew - The Marmong Point Marina Joker Jersey
Awarded to Clive for going to the wrong starting point this morning, thinking he must have been early and laying back to have a sleep - while everyone was waiting for him to arrive at the correct starting point !
Riders - The Marmong Point Marina Joker Jersey
Fatty was a nominated for falling off in the Main Street of Forster during the Qualifier, having the Police come over to check on him and then reprimanding him for riding over the bridge on the main road and not on the bike path - that's a fine Fatty !
But the winner of the Marmong Point Marina Joker Jersey for the riders was Paul Simpkins for falling off his stationary bike and knocking over his mother in law - no brownie points with your mother-in-law for doing this Paul !
The Jayco Newcastle King of the Mountain Jersey went to Luke Redgrove for stating on Facebook and in several conversations this morning how nervous he was about the Ride and his ability to do it and then having absolutely SMASHED it today. Well done Luke !
The Keith Lawrence Most Supportive Jersey for Support Crew went to our lovely Support Crew Manager, Mama C. She works tirelessly in the lead up to the Ride in the CQ Office and also raised the most funds for Camp Quality as a Support Crew member. We love you Mama C xx
The Keith Lawrence Most Supportive Jersey for Riders went to the fearless leader of Team Raw Toast - Gary Ekert. Not only is Gary's business our Platinum Sponsor but he has also raised the most funds overall, runs the Rock on the River for CQ every year, has had 4 members of his family previously participate in the Ride and now has more family members on the Ride this year and after raising over $32,000.00 also made another substantial donation on Friday - thank you Gaz, the generosity of you and your family is overwhelming.
The winner of the Team Challenge was Team Virtual Roster for helping out their team mate Ross who was sick all day. The Team really rallied around him and so will wear the No. 1 on their bikes tomorrow. - great teamwork Virtual Roster !
Then it was time for our Fine Master (Big G) to get up and hand out the fines. Brian Fulmer you would have been very proud !
Here are a snippet of some fines handed out:-
Pappy had to pay for his dad - Poppy Pappy - for talking over Donna
Shane W - fined for no name on his sleeping bag
Dishpig - fined for his blue hair
Ross - for pretending to be sick to go home to his own bed for the night !
Team Raw Toast for having their own special accommodation
Tony for having his top button done up
Luke for doing a bike spoke
Jarrod for wearing Rochelle's jersey
And the Felony for the night went to Fatty who insisted on one of the Qualifiers being the Century Challenge and then didn't go - not cool Fatty !
Well that's it for tonight everyone. Some people have already gone to bed, some are still socialising. The weather looks good for tomorrow and fingers crossed it will stay that way as they have a long, hard day riding to Pacific Palms.
Talk to you tomorrow.
Donna.
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