Royal Far West has been a Manly mainstay for almost a century, but as time and local patrons have moved on, the number of local residents donating, volunteering and connecting with the country kids charity has declined.
We thought we might help address that with a few pleasant chats with staff this morning as they take us through what they do and why it matters.
Established in Manly 1924, Royal Far West is one of Australia’s most enduring and respected charities dedicated to connecting kids in rural and remote communities to the care they need.
This morning we talked with Royal Far West Executive Director Business People and Culture Jacqui Emery as well as a Royal Far West social worker and Freshie resident, Chris Anderson and Psychologist and Balgowlah resident, Lucy Morrison who are joining cycling great Mark Renshaw on their major fundraiser – a 450km bike ride kicking off from Dubbo next weekend.
The Ride for Country Kids is starting on Sunday 2 May in Dubbo with about 80 riders visiting Narromine and Nyngan, and finishing on Tuesday 4 May in Cobar. This the charity’s primary fundraising event.
Currently 156 children from rural and remote NSW are waiting to access the charity’s Paediatric Developmental Program (PDP). The program is designed for children with complex developmental and mental health challenges to stay for a week at Royal Far West in Manly with their family.
“Being hit with drought, bushfires, COVID-19 and floods, country areas are doing it tougher than ever, and more families and communities are needing our help,” said Royal far West CEO LyndsAy Cane AM.
“Please get behind Mark our riders and donate. All funds raised will support the developmental and mental health of children and their families in rural and remote communities”.
Support Royal Far West to give hope to country kids at www.rideforcountrykids.com.au