Rockhampton to Maryborough

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Day 16 - Ride for Autism

Early start and a long 400 km ride to Maryborough

Chris Newbold

Today we arrived into Maryborough this would have to be one of the most beautiful cities I have ever been in. The old style building looks amazing. Once in town we set up outside the town hall where we were greeted by the town cryer and the state member of government Chris Foley.

We had a great conversation about the issues about waiting lists and lack of services and Chris completely agreed with me. Then he told me that his son is on the autism spectrum. And 2 weeks ago he started a support group. He also said he was interested in having a ride for autism event in Maryborough. He also said that there is no specific school available for autistic children in Maryborough as well as no pediatrician. I find it so hard to believe that we live in one of the best countries in the world and we don’t look after our children. We should have no child in this country on a waiting list, it shouldn’t matter what type of illness or educational problem they have no child should have to wait for help.

The local lions clubs were all in attendance running a BBQ and helping us get as many signatures as possible. Thank you for the support as the lions clubs have been amazing right across both Queensland and new south Wales.

We also met the new local mayor Mick Kruger this was his first duty meeting us today, he was also interested in what we were doing and sounded keen to help out.
The bikes are still running well the Arqin V3 which I have been riding the majority of the time is running well ,we passed 5000 km today and it has not missed a beat. I also really like the stereo system in it. I have the music pumping non stop.  Paul and Kirk think I am crazy but even the classical music station at 4am every morning sounds good.

Tomorrow we are heading back to Brisbane. Not too much longer and we shall be home. This has been a lot harder than what we ever could have imagined. Getting up at 3.30 every morning riding for 5 to 6 hours a day then talking to as many people as we can until shops close. And getting up at 3.30 the next day. It is starting to take a physical and mental toll we are so tired.

But we have a job to do and it’s going to get done

published 19/03/2008