WHAT does it take to feed 180 cyclists, 42 supporters and 100 volunteers for three days? That’s the logistical question for the hard-working team preparing for this weekend’s QSuper Cardiac Challenge.
More than 1100kg of cold cut meats for sandwiches, 12,000 muesli bars, 540 boxes of fruit, 1275 litres of Mungalli milk, 3240 loaves of bread and 690 packets of cereal have been donated over the years.
This year, participants will consume 270 juice poppers, 800 muesli bars, 420 tubs of yoghurt, 114L of Mungalli milk, 74kg of cold meat and 216 loaves of bread.
Piccones Group General Manager Trent Haddow said it was a major, but very fulfilling exercise for the team.
“We’re really proud to support the community in this way – we also take a team of volunteers and we’re involved in laying out the breakfasts and lunches,” he said.
“It’s a great way to be involved with such an incredible event in a very hands-on way.”
Hosted by the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation, this year’s QSuper Cardiac Challenge will be the 17th time cyclists have saddled up to ride to Cooktown in support of cardiac services.
Foundation CEO Gina Hogan said Piccones’ support of the ride extended many years including Peter’s volunteering, John’s riding and staff members volunteering.
“They are a truly such an incredibly philanthropic family and that’s what the ride and the Foundation is all about – bringing community together for improved health care for all of us,” Mrs Hogan said.
The partnership with QSuper enables 100 percent of funds raised in the Challenge to support the purchase of state-of-the-art medical equipment in the region.
Australian Retirement Trust Chief Executive Officer Bernard Reilly said the Trust is passionate about supporting our members and the community, including in rural and remote areas where they have a strong heritage.
“It’s incredibly rewarding for us to see the impact the funds raised for the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation have on increasing access to vital health services in these communities,” Mr Reilly said.
“The QSuper Cardiac Challenge is a great example of the community coming together to improve the outcomes of those in the region.”
This year is also special for Australian Retirement Trust, as they have a team participating for the first time.
“We look forward to cheering them, and all of the other participants on,” Mr Reilly said.
Keep up with the latest news and check out some of our top stories this week: Carnival of dogs and Treats from the Amazon come to Cairns.