The Sunshine Valley Gazette

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Salvos gear up for 165km ride in aid of Red Shield Appeal

Pedaling with Purpose: From left, Dean Morrison, David Donaldson and Matt Seaman ... “We are seeing more and more people requiring help”. 

Nambour’s Matt Seaman, David Donaldson and Dean Morrison are riding 165km around the Sunshine Coast to raise money for Nambour Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal.

“We will be aiming to ride between as many Salvation Army centres on the Sunshine Coast as possible on June 11,” said Dean. “Between the three of us, there have been newborn babies, sickness and hospital visits, new work schedules and other complications that have challenged our preparation. But we are determined to crack on, because what we are aiming to accomplish is more important than sore legs.”

For more than 140 years, The Salvation Army has provided care and assistance to Australians in need through a network of community programs and support services. These services cannot run without the kindness and generosity of the Australian public. 

Matt Seaman, bandmaster at Nambour, agreed. “We see it first hand, we witness the hardship within our community, and this is a way for us to raise awareness and needed funds to help serve those who need it most.”

Since the beginning of 2023 Nambour Salvation Army has witnessed an increase in the number of people from the community requiring help. 

“Homelessness, basic food needs, domestic violence (both male & female), family breakdown and child welfare are some of the situations to which we serve,” said Mr Donaldson, who is the Captain at Nambour. 

“Without our volunteers, employees and the financial help of the Australian public, we would not have the same impact, we are very grateful. Sadly, we are seeing more and more people requiring help and oftentimes, that help is simply to be listened to. So we ask people to please sponsor our June 11 ride.”

To make a contribution go to www.digitaldoorknock.salvationarmy.org.au/suncoastride.