Twelve local cyclists proudly represented the Burdekin in the 25th annual Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride, joining 191 riders for the gruelling 371km journey.
Riding as part of the Eagles group, the team tackled the three-day event, which raises vital funds for children’s cancer research. The opening leg covered 108km from Townsville to Ingham, followed by a challenging 170km ride from Ingham to Innisfail on Day Two. Riders faced the notorious Cardwell Range before continuing via the old Tully highway to Silkwood, Mena Creek and South Johnstone. The final day was a 93km stretch into Cairns, where the group crossed the finish line together.
Local riders Kurt Perry and Brooke Cross claimed the Eagles’ “King and Queen of the Mountain” titles as the first male and female to conquer the Cardwell Range. Both Perry and Cross, along with Mario Romeo and James Kennedy, were consistently among the front riders, helping lead the team into Cairns.
Several first-time riders also made their mark, with Meg Blakey, Perry, Andrew Kennedy and Tahia Blakey successfully completing the full ride. Meanwhile, Andrew Sherrington, James Kennedy, James Jensen and Robbie Mitchell were recognised for their incredible commitment, each clocking up more than 10 years of participation.
Further accolades went to Brooke Cross, who was awarded the prestigious ‘Spirit of the Ride’ honour. The award recognises a rider who demonstrates dedication, inclusiveness, and an ongoing commitment to the Eagles.
The ride held special meaning for the local team, who dedicated their efforts to the late Michael “Moon” Mooney. Moon, who passed away in 2019 from Stage 4 Metastatic Melanoma, completed the Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride six times.
Now in its 25th year, the event has raised more than $9 million for children’s cancer research, with this year’s ride contributing $360,155. Each participant was required to raise funds, and the Burdekin contingent alone brought in an impressive $29,035. Leading the way was first-time rider Meg Blakey, who raised $6,357.
A special acknowledgement goes to Eathorne’s Masters, who contributed $2,458 through the Mooney Cup initiative, which has supported the ride since 2019.
The riders extended their heartfelt thanks to all supporters and sponsors, whose generosity continues to help fund vital research into finding a cure for children’s cancers.
The 12 Burdekin Riders at the Cairns finish line after completing the 371km 2025 Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride! (back) Evan Shannon, Andrew Sherrington, Andrew Kennedy, (middle) Mario Romeo, James Jensen, Robbie Mitchell, Mark Dale, Tahia Blakey, (front) James Kennedy, Meg Blakey, Brooke Cross, and Kurt Perry (Photo Supplied)
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