Thousands donate to Townsville Toy Run
Rain did not stop hundreds of motorcycle riders gathering for the annual Townsville and District Motorcycle Riders Association Toy Run to support The Salvation Army’s Christmas Appeal (Photo courtesy of Bronwyn Vinen)
Hundreds of needy children in Northern Queensland won’t be disappointed this Christmas, thanks to the motorcycle riders and generous donors in the annual toy run.
The Townsville and District Motorcycle Riders Association Toy Run took to the streets on 24 November to support The Salvation Army’s Christmas Appeal.
Hundreds of motorcyclists, many on decorated bikes, gathered in South Townsville to begin collecting gifts and enjoy a barbecue and mini trade show with their supporters. The riders included members of different many clubs, a contingent of ‘posties’ on motorbikes, bikes with sidecars, quad bikes and a range of other riders from the local community.
“Behind the riders is the Salvos Stores truck that also receives donations,” says Bronwyn Vinen, Salvos Stores Area Manager Townsville. Bronwyn has been a part of the toy run for the past 10 years.
“It’s all about Christmas and Townsville is just amazing at giving,” she says. “Thousands of toys have been donated. The Christmas spirit is full-on – it’s awesome and I love it!”
Councillor Vern Veitch, Deputy Mayor of Townsville, addressed the crowd, encouraging people to support the mission of The Salvation Army through the Christmas appeal, and thanking them for their generosity.
The riders left South Townsville at 4.30pm, accompanied by a police escort, and made their way through the streets to Thuringowa RSL Club, around 40 minutes away.
People lined the streets, encouraging the riders and cheering them on. Another crowd welcomed the riders, bringing more toys, games and non-perishable foods to the Salvos Stores truck for the appeal.
“Both corps in Townsville, Riverway and Faithworks, will receive toys from the toy run to distribute to needy families in the community,” explains Bronwyn.
Over the next couple of weeks, volunteers will sort the toys into gift packs ready for distribution.
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