The lead bikes and trucks ahead of this year’s convoy. Photo: Supplied.
Life-saving funds raised through the i98FM Illawarra Convoy during its 21 years have hit the $30 million mark, following last weekend’s hugely successful event.
All proceeds from Convoy go to the lllawarra Community Foundation which has provided assistance to more than 1000 families battling life-threatening or life-limiting illnesses.
Convoy has also provided funding to charities which work with these people and local hospitals including Wollongong Hospital’s Children Ward, Bulli Hospital Palliative Care Ward, Illawarra Wig Library, Kiama Lions Club and Illawarra Cancer Carers Patient Transport.
Last Sunday’s Convoy raised $2,313,243 and boasted 803 bikes and 817 trucks.
Event founder and community ambassador Marty Haynes said the fundraising kicked off before Convoy even began, with the Lead Bike and Truck auction raising $1.3 million.
Ross Transport, supported by Amarli’s Army, contributed $305,000 for Lead Truck, while Coles lllawarra claimed the Lead Bike position for the fifth consecutive year, raising $156,000.
People lined the Convoy route to cheer the participants and more than 12,000 people attended the Family Fun Day at Shellharbour Airport where they were entertained with performances from The Screaming Jets and AC/DC support act, Large Mirage.
“Every year the generosity of the lllawarra, trucking and motorbike community, volunteer and staff bypass any expectations to make this special event come to life,” Marty said.
“We live in the best place in the world and we will continue to come back each year to help even more deserving families and organisations in the lllawarra.”
The Community Foundation’s funding program is open year round and applications are viewed by a funding committee monthly. Click here for more details.
