Royal Far West’s Ride for Country Kids 2026 has officially wrapped up, ensuring a stronger future for country kids.
The 2026 Ride for Country Kids took 64 cyclists on a journey – albeit a wet one – starting in Parkes, and travelling through Molong, Manildra, Trundle, and Eugowra, before finishing in Forbes. These towns hold a very special place in Royal Far West’s history and future, supported by passionate people, local branches, and community hubs like our op-shops in Forbes and Trundle.
Now in its twelfth year, Ride for Country Kids has raised over $4.5 million to support country children with developmental and mental health needs.
As Dr Briony Scott, Royal Far West’s CEO said:
“It was a joy to meet with young people who have been impacted, in a positive way, by the work Royal Far West has done via their teachers and with Royal Far West clinicians during Ride for Country Kids. Along the Ride, we were hosted by a group of legendary women who have singlehandedly run the Trundle Royal Far West Op Shop for a number of years, sponsoring care and support to the children in this area.”
“I was reminded, listening to all they have achieved, of that magnificent Margaret Mead quote (renowned anthropologist): ‘Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has’. Working together, it is possible to change the world. One heart at a time.”
“This Ride embodies everything Royal Far West stands for – going the extra mile for country kids,” said Dr Briony Scott, CEO of Royal Far West. “Seeing 64 riders take on this challenge is incredibly moving. Their dedication, and the generosity of our supporters, means that we can continue delivering life-changing services to the country kids who need them most,” said Briony Scott, CEO of Royal Far West.
Day 1 of the Ride
Ride for Country Kids 2026 officially began in Parkes, with a Smoking Ceremony led by Tyrone Robinson, grounding the Ride in respect, connection and community.
Following the ceremony, riders gathered for the official ribbon cutting with Councillor Neil Westcott, Mayor of Parkes Shire Council, and Dr Briony Scott, CEO of Royal Far West, before rolling out for the first stage of the journey.
Cycling through Molong and Manildra, riders covered up to 179km on Day 1 – a strong start and a powerful reminder of the commitment driving this event.
Day 2 of the Ride
Day 2 took riders from Parkes to Forbes via Trundle, where they were warmly welcomed by the local community.
Over morning tea, riders heard from local voices, including Donna-Lee Horsburgh from St Patrick’s Parish School, and learned more about the work of the Trundle Royal Far West Branch and Opportunity Shop. In a town of just 300 people, this dedicated group continues to make a significant impact, with volunteers who have supported Royal Far West for decades, and others who have come full circle by giving back after receiving care as children.
It is communities like Trundle that help ensure local children can access the care they need, close to home.
Day 3 of the Ride
On the final day, riders set out from Forbes to Eugowra, where they visited the Eugowra Community Children’s Centre, alongside local schools including Eugowra Public School and St Joseph’s School.
With children from the local community gathered to welcome the riders in, this stop offered another powerful moment of connection, highlighting the real impact of Royal Far West’s work across the region.
Riders then returned to Forbes for the final celebration, marking three days of challenge, connection and purpose. Through early starts, long distances and wet conditions, riders pushed on – united by a shared commitment to country kids.
A huge thank you to the communities of Western NSW, our sponsors, and riders.
Throughout the Ride, the generosity of communities across the Central West was on full display.
From Parkes, Molong, Manildra, Trundle, Eugowra and Forbes, riders were welcomed with warmth and enthusiasm by local schools, families, volunteers, councils and community members. Royal Far West’s Branches in Forbes, Trundle and Manildra, along with local councils and supporters, played an important role in bringing this event to life.
To our riders, sponsors and supporters – thank you. Your commitment, energy and generosity made Ride for Country Kids 2026 truly special.
“Thanks to the unwavering dedication of our riders and the incredible generosity of our sponsors and supporters, we’re able to continue delivering vital health and developmental services to country children,” said Dr Briony Scott. “This proves what we can achieve when we come together for a cause that truly matters, and I couldn’t be more grateful.”
We’d love to extend a HUGE thank you to the many businesses, organisations and individuals who helped bring this event to life:
Our Sponsors: Multiplex, ANZ, Nexia, Sydney Business Park, Essential Energy, New Holland, WOTSO and GrainCorp.
Teams: Fraser’s Friends, School of Strength, Manly Legends, IT&T and our Royal Far West Team – Chafing the Dream
Supporters: Agriculture Equipment Holdings, CWA Forbes, Forbes & District Lions Club, Fallow Nutrition, De Salis Wines, Stockman’s Ridge Wines, Henry Parkes Motor Inn, All Settlers Motor Inn, Moonraker Motor Inn, Coachman Hotel, The Plainsman Motel, Forbes Victoria Inn, Deja Brew, Pickles Coffee Shop, Parkes Visitor Centre, Parkes Dish, Sixt Car Hire, Buckettys, Harris Farm, Coca Cola, Eat Your Greens, Take a Sipp.
Media, leaders & community champions: Cr Neil Westcott, Roel Ten Cate, Chrissy Little, Phila Donato MP, Scott Barrett MP, Phyllis Miller.
Auction & raffle contributors: Manly Pacific, Jonah’s, Q Station, Garfish, Verve Photography, Bands of Courage, Taronga Zoo, Sandhills Artefacts (via River Dreaming Aboriginal Corporation), Duncan Schieb.
Schools & community groups: Eugowra Community Children’s Centre, Eugowra School, Holy Family Parkes, St Joseph’s, St Patrick’s, St Laurence’s, Trundle Central School, Red Bend College Band.
Community & individual supporters: Forbes & Parkes Councils, Toni Lennane, Forbes Information Centre, Royal Far West Forbes Branch, Royal Far West Trundle Branch, Royal Far West Manildra Branch, Raewyn Molloy, Gibbons Family, Katrina Noble, Nygarie Bilsborough, Tyrone Robinson, Charlie O’Hara, Nginhagu Dance Group, Nadika McKeown, Larry Towney, Ben Flick, Brett Smith, Highlands First Aid.