Pictured outside the Royal Far West Op Shop in Fobes from left to right is Rona Pritchard, Julie Jones, Lorraine Allen, Mygarie Bilsborough, Robyn McGrath, Stuart Thomas, Molly Nielsen and Maureen Bale.
Royal Far West’s Ride for Country Kids is coming to Western NSW from 17-20 May 2026, the event aims to raise $500,000 to fund vital developmental and mental health support services for country children and their families.
Ride for Country Kids will take cyclists on a journey through Royal Far West’s heartland over three days – starting in Parkes, and travelling through Manildra, Molong, Trundle, and Eugowra, before finishing in Forbes. These towns hold a special place in Royal Far West’s history and future, supported by passionate people in local branches, and community hubs like the Royal Far West op-shops in Forbes and Trundle.
Stuart Thomas is a long-distance cyclist who lives and works in Forbes. This year will be his first time participating in the Ride for Country Kids.
“My daughter, Megan Fitzpatrick, works as a Paediatric Speech Pathologist at Royal Far West. She inspired me to participate in Ride for Country Kids 2026,” said Stuart Thomas.
Stuart is 58 years of age and is originally from Forbes. He is a Business Partner at Findex, in Forbes.
His work role supports local farming and manufacturing businesses in Forbes and surrounding areas.
His voluntary role sees him cycle vast distances, last year he cycled 400kms over two days from Forbes to Manly, raising an incredible $10,954 for Royal Far West.
“There’s a real sense of accomplishment when you ride into a town for Royal Far West. There’s a sense of making a difference to the community. I’m really looking forward to connecting with the schools and people during Ride for Country Kids 2026,” added Stuart.
Now in its twelfth year, Ride for Country Kids has raised over $4.5 million to support country children with developmental and mental health needs. Learn more or donate at www.rideforcountrykids.com.au