Jess’s inspiration to participate in this year’s Ride stems from her deep connection to the locations on the route. “This is my favourite part of NSW, particularly in regard to RFW. I have done multiple community visits to Walgett, Bourke, and surrounding communities. However, I have also never set foot in Cobar, it feels like the missing jewel in my crown,” she explains. Over her 12 years with RFW, Jess has supported children from Cobar and is excited to finally visit the town she has heard so much about. “I had a very long standing client from Cobar who I supported for years on every RFW program. He was a fascinating kid who pushed my clinical skills but lifted my spirits every time I saw him. He was a character. I’ve always wanted to visit the town I’ve heard so much about. I’ve often travelled the road Bourke-Dubbo, but never had the opportunity to take the detour to Cobar.”
Balancing training with commitments
Balancing training for the Ride with professional and personal commitments has been a challenge for Jess. “I haven’t ridden for seven years (since I last did the Ride for Country Kids in 2018) and have two young kids. I probably chose a particularly tough year with my oldest just starting school and a number of significant work events and commitments leading up to the ride,” she admits. However, Jess finds solace in early morning rides on weekends. “I’m just making the most of getting out on the road early on the weekend spending quality time with my mum and dad who ride and committed to training me. That’s my dad’s consolation for not being able to participate in the ride this year.”
The fear of cars and safety on the roads, the volume of equipment needed for cycling, and prioritising training over preferred fitness activities and time with her kids have been major challenges. “Detaching my children off me to get out the door if I leave anytime after 6 am” is particularly tough, but Jess remains determined.
Raising awareness for rural children
For Jess, raising funds and awareness for children in rural and remote areas is crucial because inequity is unacceptable in her opinion. Her personal connection to the regions and the cause strengthens her resolve to make a difference. Jess has supported many clients who started with being assessed and diagnosed on our PDP program, then transitioned to schools telecare for intervention, and later accessed RFW’s NDIS services. “RFW was always there for them, providing consistency and stability through their journey and other major transitions in their lives. What other service provides that?” she asks.
Jess encourages anyone considering participating in this year’s Ride for Country Kids to go for it. “You’ll never get an experience like it. It is the most well-organised, slickest event. So long as you can get your training in, the rest takes care of itself, and you’ll have a blast. What better way to get out and immerse yourself on country,” she says. The one thing Jess is most looking forward to during this year’s Ride is finally visiting Cobar.
If Jess could sum up her Ride for Country Kids experience in one word, it would be: “It’ll all be worth it when we get out there.”
Jess McGrath’s journey is a testament to the dedication and passion of those involved in the Ride for Country Kids. Her story highlights the importance of raising funds and awareness for children in rural areas and inspires others to join in making a difference.
Find out more about the Ride here: rideforcountrykids.com.au/event/rfck/