Riding for a cause

PERTH’S health and cycling enthusiasts are being called to take part in Western Australia’s largest mass participation bike ride, that will give entrants the rare chance to ride through the Graham Farmer Freeway tunnel and on the freeways.

The Home Building Society Freeway Bike Hike, to benefit the Asthma Foundation, will involve the closure of the east and southbound lanes of the Graham Farmer and Mitchell freeways on March 20.

The event, involving either a 30 kilometre course or a more leisurely nine kilometre family ride, encourages all Western Australians to get active and will be open to all ages.

It is estimated the Freeway Bike Hike will draw more than 5,000 local entrants.

All funds raised will go to support WA asthma research and education.

One quarter there

WITH one month until Christmas, Western Australia’s largest charity St Vincent de Paul Society has only achieved one quarter of its target for its 2004 Christmas appeal.

The charity needs $500,000 to assist every genuine request for help leading up to Christmas with the New Year and back to school costs.

State President Brian Bull said monetary donations were particularly helpful as St Vinnies could stretch each dollar further by buying food and other essential items.

He said the charity could also claim back GST on those purchases.

"We are hoping to raise enough funds to provide assistance right through to May next year and with the help of the community we can make a wish come true," Mr Bull said.

"Businesses have been particularly helpful collecting gifts to be distributed to those in need this Christmas but further support is needed by way of cash donations to ensure vital services continue "

Donations to the appeal can be made at www.svdpwa.org.au or by phoning 9475 5416.