Packing To Leave

I have just completed packing for the trip to Rome where we start our ride to Paris and beyond….

it is pleasing to note that so far I have raised over $30,000 for Alkira’s cafe in Box Hill. I set an initial goal of raising $25k and through the generosity of many this target has been achieved. On this basis we are now looking to raise this to $50 k if we can. In talking to the CEO of Alkira recently the costs of the fit out of the cafe have risen to about $100k so the additional funds will be very important to Alkira.

I want to thank all of those who have supported me in donating to this important cause and I hope to show my support in riding well over the coming weeks!

I also want to thank Mick at Quality Cycle Repairs for preparing the bike for the ride. He has been magnificent in doing this with such care and attention.

I also want to acknowledge the help and support of my fellow Wheeliebinners in wishing both me and Steve Seymour all the best for the ride. Yesterday we had a coffee at Briquettes cafe to say goodbye to many of them which was a great send off for both Steve and myself.

As I send this blog, Steve Seymour will be on his way to Rome and I will have met my Kiwi mate, Chris Jones at Melbourne Airport ahead of flying to Rome.

I have now met with Chris and it is gratifying see him again looking so fit and well…. We now begin another great adventure!

The nerves are jangling a bit in anticipation of the adventure so in some ways it is good to have a long flight to settle down.

Last night I had dinner with most of my family which was great as I will not see them again until the end of August.

The pictures below are the coffee with the Wheeliebinners at Briquettes cafe…. A cool morning in Melbourne

There is a picture of me with one of the Alkira Participants, Ben outside the main building in Box Hill.

There is also a picture of my bike box all ready for the flight to Rome and the dinner with some of my family last evening…. Great to see them all.