A HEARTY group of members from the Upper Hunter Ulysses Branch hit the road for a great cause at the weekend.
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The riders, from all parts of the region including Muswellbrook and Singleton, joined thousands of like-minded people to take part in the annual Bikers for Kids Newcastle Toy Run on Sunday.
After more than 40 years, it’s an extraordinary festive season favourite that raises toys and funds for children in need and The Salvation Army Christmas Appeal.
The local organisation also donated $500 towards the Salvos’ Emergency Services appeal.
Treasurer Kerry Solman presented the cash to Warren Zambra, of The Salvation Army Emergency Service, at Wickham Park on the day.
“The money was raised during the branch Christmas dinner hosted at Singleton’s Club House Hotel,” he said.
“It was generously supported by the hotel’s patrons and owner, Brad Solman, who rounded the total up to $500, which was greatly appreciated by the Ulysses members.”
Brian “Bear” Davison was among the leaders during the toy run and pillioned a representative from The Salvation Army.
Many different models of motorcycles participate in the event, including those who decorate their bikes and themselves with glitter and tinsel.
The Upper Hunter Ulysses Branch is a group of people from all walks of life living in the Upper Hunter, with the common interest of motorbikes and riding.
“We’re one of over 137 branches in Australia,” Mr Solman said.
“The Ulysses Club Inc is a worldwide organisation, which began in Australia and is a social club for motorcyclists over the age of 40.
“The Ulysses Club aims to provide ways in which older motorcyclists, male and female, can get together for companionship and mutual support.
“To show by example that motorcycling can be an enjoyable and practical activity for riders.”
The Upper Hunter Ulysses Branch meets monthly and arranges rides from one day and two days, with overnight stays and extended holidays.
A ride calendar is produced with the rides outlined to a wide variety of destinations all of which are optional to attend.
“Although the purpose of joining the group is for riding motorcycles, we – through fundraising – contribute to local worthy causes such as the Merriwa CWA, Simply Loving Taylor fund, Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation as well as UCARF (Arthritis Foundation), the main charity of the Ulysses Club,” Mr Solman said.
“In the past, we’ve previously donated to the Singleton Hospital.”
The Upper Hunter Ulysses Club meets on the Saturday night prior to the first Sunday of the month at the Club House Hotel, John Street, Singleton, where members host their meeting and a social get-together at 6pm.
Visit the Upper Hunter Ulysses Branch website at upperhunter.ulyssesclub.org or phone Stephen Penfold on 0428 291 534 or Jim Sheedy on 0431 567 908 if you have questions or may be interested in participating on some fun rides.