Sam Longmore completes 441km Big Wheel Challenge, raising over $175,000 for rural mental health
A herculean 441-kilometre wheelchair journey raising much-needed funds for rural mental health has come to a powerful and emotional finish in Yass, with local disability advocate and adaptive athlete Sam Longmore rolling into town on Saturday, 4 July after eight days of determination, endurance and community spirit across regional New South Wales as part of The Big Wheel: Push for a Purpose.
Beginning in Corowa on 27 June and travelling through more than 20 communities including Albury, Wagga Wagga, Junee, Cootamundra, Harden and Binalong, Ms Longmore pushed through challenging weather, long road stretches and physical fatigue, supported by strong community engagement along the route.
The challenge and accompanying charity auction have raised more than $175,000 and counting for rural mental health initiatives supporting the work of Rural Aid and Riverina Bluebell. While the fundraising total is significant, the key focus has been raising awareness of mental health in rural communities, reinforcing the message that one conversation at the right time can change everything. The funds raised will support mental health outreach, counselling for farming families, emergency relief during drought, fire and flood events, and community wellbeing programs across rural and remote Australia.
Ms Longmore said the challenge was driven by a desire to encourage conversation and connection across rural communities.
“I just wanted to help. I had the ability to help. We all have the ability to help,” she said. “I took on this challenge to raise awareness of rural mental health and to support the work being done by Rural Aid in rural communities. One small thing each day can make a real difference to everyday Australians.”
Ms Longmore continued, “although I spent the majority of the time on the road on my own, this didn’t happen just because of me. There was a team, there was a community behind me getting here today.”
CEO of Rural Aid John Warlters said the effort reflected both endurance and a strong commitment to rural Australia.
“What Sam has achieved is an outstanding effort. Covering 441 kilometres over eight days in support of rural mental health is no small feat, and it speaks volumes about her dedication to rural communities.”
“Just as significant as the physical achievement were the connections made along the way. Every conversation, every wave from the roadside, and every shared story helped shine a light on the realities faced in many rural and remote communities.”
“The funds raised will go toward delivering practical mental health support, emergency assistance and wellbeing programs that help farming families and regional communities not only through difficult times, but in building long-term resilience.”
Throughout the journey, communities across regional NSW turned out in strong support of Ms Longmore, with locals joining for sections of the route and gathering in towns to show encouragement and solidarity. The challenge became a shared expression of connection across rural Australia. The final arrival in Yass marked the completion of the physical journey and a celebration of community support and fundraising success.
The impact of The Big Wheel will continue beyond the kilometres travelled, with funds raised helping to strengthen mental health support, resilience and connection in rural communities across Australia. Donations can still be made at www.mycause.com.au/page/393886/the-big-wheel.
About Rural Aid:
Rural Aid is Australia’s leading charity supporting farmers, their families and rural communities. Rural Aid delivers practical assistance during drought, fire, flood and other disasters, helping farming families stay on the land and protect their livelihoods. Through disaster relief, mental health support and community development programs, Rural Aid works with partners, supporters and volunteers to strengthen rural communities and ensure farmers have the support they need to recover, rebuild and remain connected.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Daniel Brown
Media and Communications Officer
0447 116 757
daniel.brown@ruralaid.org.au