The journey continues: Sam Longmore joins Rural Aid as Ambassador
Following her extraordinary 441-kilometre wheelchair journey through regional New South Wales, Sam Longmore is continuing her commitment to rural communities as the newest Rural Aid Ambassador.
The Yass-based small business owner and adaptive athlete joins Rural Aid’s Ambassador team alongside Aussie Rules player Alyce Parker and retired Rugby League player Corey Jensen, using her profile to continue raising awareness of mental health and the challenges facing people in the bush.
Sam’s appointment follows The Big Wheel: Push for a Purpose, an eight-day journey from Corowa to Yass that took her through more than 20 regional communities and raised more than $200,000 for rural charities Rural Aid and Riverina Bluebell.
“I always wanted The Big Wheel to be about more than the kilometres or money raised,” Sam Longmore said.
“It was about getting people talking, bringing communities together and shining a light on mental health in rural Australia.
“Becoming a Rural Aid Ambassador means I can keep that conversation going. I’ve seen the incredible strength and generosity of rural communities, and I want to keep using my voice to support them.
“The Big Wheel showed me what’s possible when people come together behind a cause, and I’m really excited to continue that journey with Rural Aid.”
Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said Sam’s passion for rural communities and her ability to connect with people made her a natural fit for the role.
“Sam has an incredible ability to bring people together and get people talking,” Mr Warlters said.
“What she achieved through The Big Wheel was remarkable, but it was the purpose behind it that really stood out.
“Sam understands the importance of community and looking out for one another. We’re delighted she’ll continue using her platform to raise awareness of mental health and support people in rural and remote Australia.”
Through its work across rural and remote Australia, Rural Aid supports farmers and rural communities through challenging times, including drought, flood and fire, while investing in community development and mental health wellbeing initiatives.
For Sam, the Ambassador role is a chance to build on the momentum of The Big Wheel and continue supporting the communities that inspired her journey.
“The finish line in Yass wasn’t really the end,” Sam said.
“It feels more like the start of something. I want to keep the conversation going and remind people in rural communities that when times are tough, they don’t have to go through it alone.”
Australians can continue Sam’s mission by supporting Rural Aid and helping ensure farmers and rural communities have access to practical assistance, connection and wellbeing support when they need it most.
To support Rural Aid, visit ruralaid.org.au/donate or call 1300 327 624.
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