In true festive spirit, when a request for assistance circulated through the Bulahdelah community, the town instantly rallied.
Within an hour, the Bowling Club had organised to host a group of Steer North charity riders who were about to descend into the town.
On the day of their unexpected arrival, Travel Officer and cyclist Peter Hosri posted on the community Facebook page asking for donations of food to support the 24 cyclists who were riding from Melbourne to Cairns.
The group had so far raised more than $120,000 for cancer.
Mr Hosri said they were simply hoping for a donation of a couple of products to help reduce their expenses.
Instead, Bulahdelah Bowling Club in conjunction with Donna Shannon from Greens Bistro provided a full dinner for the visitors, their first sit-down meal on the journey so far, with an evening of barefoot bowls thrown in.
Bowling Club Secretary Allan Freihaut said the club didn’t hesitate to become involved, with Donna and her staff also quickly jumping in to assist.
“We’ve played host to a number of charity riders and organisations in the past and it’s all for a good cause,” Mr Freihaut said.
“It shows people from outside what a friendly town we are, it’s all about the hospitality and everyone pitches in.”
Speaking with News Of The Area, cyclist Peter Hosri said the group had been “blown away” by the Bulahdelah community spirit.
“Since the Facebook post, there’s been nothing but support coming our way, I’m speechless to see what has been done for us,” he said.
“It’s also been amazing just walking around the place and having everyone come up and say hi and be very supportive.”
Steer North is a health promotion charity that raises funds for cancer research and patient care while promoting physical activity and a healthy lifestyle.
The 45-day journey over 4,000kms will conclude in Cairns on 16 January.
By Daniel SAHYOUN
