The popular event is on Sunday April 8, and will again offer riders four different course options – a 20km, 40km, 65km or 100km ride.

These scenic routes were inspired by the organiser’s childhood experience of delivering mail with his father.

From 1958 to 1967 Ken Dreaper’s father had the mailrun contract in the Scotts Flat, Glendon, Mitchells Flat, Glendonbrook and Westbrook area.

He would travel this route six days a week in his Holden car and as a kid Ken would wake early on a Saturday morning and during the school holidays to accompany him.

Quarry Mining’s Peter Hodgson says they have been sponsoring the event since 2014 and have five riders entering in the challenging 100km course.

“This year we want to put the challenge to workplaces to get on board with a team,” he explains.

“Workplaces can also sponsor individual riders as well.”

Registrations are now open online but riders must be aged over 12 years to participate.

During this process participants can purchase an official Mailrun cycling jersey and raffle tickets – first prize is a Hunter Valley Helicopters Breakfast Experience (valued at $550) plus one night's accommodation at Quest Singleton in a two bedroom apartment (valued at $380) plus a Taste of the Country meals & drinks voucher (valued at $100).

This year all the funds raised are again earmarked for Singleton Family Support (SFS). 

A local not-for-profit that helps families to become confident and empowered to make positive, independent decisions.

SFS’s Lisa Brock says the funds will go towards the cost of running their Supportive Playgroup.

“The playgroup provides support for families in need. It’s a free playgroup where parents and children can socialise with others, as well as receive support from family workers and professionals.”

“The Mailrun know how valuable our playgroup is for the community, and their donations help to ensure we can continue running the service.”

Mr Dreaper says they have raised $78 000 for SFS over the last three rides and a total of $120 000 all up.

“It’s important to us that the money raised stays local, so we were happy to support our local Family Support,” he says.

 He says it is also important to know that it’s a ride, not a race.

“There are no competitive times; it’s simply a social charity ride.”

“It’s a very scenic ride, so hopefully we can get some rain before April,” Mailrun committee member, Ruth Butler, says.

“A lot of the entrants come to the Valley to enjoy the ride because it’s away from busy streets and you can go at your own pace. It’s got that country feel to it.”

The 100km ride will start from 7am at Civic Avenue near the Gym&Swim and then, the other starting times will be staggered. 

If you would like to help this fundraising effort but don’t plan on entering, riders can be sponsored online 

While Quarry Mining is the events major sponsor, the committee would also like to thank the following secondary sponsors:  Stibbard Homes, J & S Engineering & Maintenance, Thiess, Bailey Property & Livestock.

Along with minor sponsors: