The Ride for Country Kids 2025 from 15 to 17 May marked the biggest Ride ever with 100 riders in Royal Far West’s (RFW) 100th year, reconnecting with Royal Far West’s past and ensuring a stronger future for country kids.
Covering 380 kilometres across far west NSW, riders engaged with local communities and raised $820,000, with donations still coming in. This result has surpassed our fundraising goal and will ensure more children in rural and remote Australia receive the critical health services they need.
“This Ride embodies everything Royal Far West stands for – going beyond for country kids,” said Jacqui Emery, CEO of Royal Far West. “Seeing 100 riders take on this challenge in celebration of 100 years is incredibly moving, and thanks to their dedication and the generosity of our supporters, we’ve exceeded our fundraising expectations. These funds will help deliver life-changing services to the country kids who need them most.”
This year’s event also reinforced Royal Far West’s commitment to creating lasting change. A new three-year partnership between Bourke and District Children’s Services, Minderoo Foundation and Royal Far West will expand essential early intervention services for children aged 0-6 in the Bourke region, ensuring they receive the support they need at the most critical time in their development.
“This partnership is a game-changer for Bourke and surrounding communities,” said Emery. “We’re not just riding through these towns – we’re making sure country kids in these regions get the services they need now and into the future.”
RFW sent special thank you to the dedicated riders, commitment and determination ensured the Ride was truly phenomenal – not only in bringing together 100 riders for 100 years but in surpassing the fundraising goal in a way that will make a real difference for country kids.
The Ride concluded in Dubbo at the Royal Far West 100-Year Gala Dinner, where supporters, donors and community leaders came together to celebrate 100-years of Royal Far West and for a final push to raise even more funds.
“It was a truly unforgettable evening where we reflected on the impact Royal Far West has made over the past 100 years and rallied together to ensure that impact continues,” said Jacqui Emery.