By Abbey Cannan
Noosa psychologist and casual cyclist, Dave Clarke is set to ride a gruelling 1200kms from Brisbane to Sydney next week to raise much-needed money for the Humpty Dumpty Foundation.
Departing Brisbane on Wednesday 19 October, the riders will stop along the way at Ipswich, Warwick, Glen Innes, Armidale, Tamworth, Muswellbrook and Newcastle before arriving in Sydney on Tuesday 25 October.
With funds raised for the Humpty Dumpty Foundation, the 1200kms for Kids Charity Bike riders will be making life-saving medical equipment donations to several hospitals along the bike ride route.
The cause is very close to the hearts of Ripple Psychology principal psychologists, Dave Clarke and Melita Inglis, the husband and wife team that established the Noosa Junction service in 2015.
Melita and Dave lost one of their premature twins in 2008. Both boys were in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit for some weeks before Oscar died.
Finn was discharged from the NICU two months later, and is now an active, healthy Year 8 student.
“I’m honoured and humbled by the opportunity to be able to make such a significant difference for sick kids throughout Australia,” Dave said, on his involvement on the ride.
Following a two-year Covid sabbatical, the ride returns in 2022 bigger and better than ever.
The 1200kms for Kids Charity Bike Ride was conceived in 2005 by two friends Trevelyan Bale and Sunshine Coast local Gary Richardson to give back to the hospitals that routinely help sick children in Australia.
The inaugural ride took place in 2006 and to date the 1200kms for Kids charity bike ride has generously fundraised over $1.7 million.
In 2011, the 1200kms for Kids riders began supporting the Humpty Dumpty Foundation and to date, over 40 pieces of life-saving medical equipment have been donated.
“We will be cycling an average of 170kms per day over the seven days, and well over 200kms on the longer days,“ Dave said.
“I have done cycling training around the Noosa Shire, although not as much as I’d ideally like to. I work six days a week in the clinic and have other commitments such as surf lifesaving, so I have done what I can to prepare.
“We’ll get to experience a great deal of physical and mental stress, however this is nothing compared to the fight that many sick kids and their families experience on a daily basis.“
Ripple Psychology has become an integral part of the Noosa community, including the several school communities in the area.
“We have for several years sponsored various community organisations such as the Sunshine Beach Surf Club and the Noosa Par Three Golf Course, but this particular charity has offered an opportunity that is very close to our hearts,“ Dave said.
“The smallest of donations can make a significant difference to support seriously ill children and their families.“
Another event that is important to the Ripple Psychology team is Queensland Mental Health Week from 8-16 October.
“As a community we have become increasingly aware of the pivotal role of good mental health in maintaining a positive, healthy, satisfying life,“ Dave said.
“Mental Health Week assists in broadening that awareness and Ripple Psychology is privileged to work with those who have decided to improve their mental health.”
To support Dave and the 1200kms for Kids riders to continue to make a difference to young Aussie lives through the generous work of the Humpty Dumpty Foundation, donations can be made at 1200kmsforkids.com and every dollar is accepted with deep gratitude.
Locals, community and business organisations interested in supporting the Humpty Dumpty Foundation and their local hospital by donating a piece of medical equipment or by making a donation can view the wish-list at humpty.com.au.
To get in touch with the Ripple Psychology team call 07 5302 7776 or email info@ripplepsychology.com.au or visit www.ripplepsychology.com.au for further information.
