Firing up the pedals in Keith, South Australia, the peloton of Bernie Gillespie, Murray Lumley, Paul McFadyen, Jenni McFadyen, Gifford Crosthwaithe and Ray Jarratt wound their way across half the country, finishing at Mivo Park, all in support of the refurbishments for Ottrey Lodge aged care facility.
For almost a fortnight on the bike, the Wild Hogs traversed a a vast spectrum of sweeping landscapes from stunning Great Ocean Road views to the harsh climate of the Thredbo mountains, covering more than 2000 km between themselves for the cause – but there was another motive driving them to cross the line.
Last year the group embarked on a monster ride in support of Alzheimer's and dementia from Perth, but unfortunately Mr Jarratt was forced to stop after sustaining a back injury in Keith and from then on it was clear to the Wild Hogs that they had to finish for their mate.
“Ray organised that last trip and we all felt obligated wanted to do it for him,” Mr Gillespie said.
This time round, the Wild Hogs were full steam ahead from the get-go and flew through the days, but as the Thredbo mountains loomed, the challenge it presented was evident as fatigue set in.
“We averaged 150 km a day over undulating country, which was quite telling, and it had a cumulative effect,” Mr Gillespie said.
“When we got to mountains, we already done 10 days have to do 3000 m climbing.”
Enduring snow, ice, rain and subzero temperatures, the Wild Hogs prevailed, pedaling their way through the ridges to coast into familiar territory where hugs, a celebratory beverage and a fleeting sense of achievement was waiting for the cyclists.
“When you are riding together, there is a camaraderie there where we are all looking after each other,” Mr Gillespie said.
“We all had our individual ups and downs during the ride, but I think that you all just jell together.
“Another aspect is all having a common cause, those things are important to help you complete the ride.”
The Wild Hogs are still looking for sponsors and donations and urged anyone able to offer support to do so for Ottrey Lodge.
