Cairns builder keeps record-breaking fundraiser for sick kids alive

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Kenfrost Homes has come to the rescue of Ronald McDonald House charities’ major fundraiser in the north, after recent Brisbane flooding threatened the viability of this year’s event.

The ‘Rivers of Gold’ bike ride sees up to 30 riders trek through Far North Queensland’s outback and last year raised a record-breaking $256,000 for the charity.

That was enough to fund over 1,560 nights’ accommodation for families in need.

Kenfrost Homes Marketing Coordinator, Alex Loughton, said the feasibility of this year’s event was in doubt because flooding in the south-east of the state impacted the ability of many of last year's entrants to again take part.

The riders raise funds through their family, work and social networks.

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Mr Loughton said Kenfrost - a major sponsor - refused to see the ride postponed, so increased its financial support to a massive $70,000.

“Families with sick kids are in need every year and Kenfrost Homes refuse to let this event fall down in 2022,” he said.

“We recognised that this situation was ready made with all the elements in place, it just needed help to push it over the line.”

177 Far North Queensland families stayed at Ronald McDonald House Townsville in 2021, while 20 Cairns region children were part of the Ronald McDonald Learning Program and 13 families stayed at the Ronald McDonald Family Retreat in Palm Cove.

Cairns local, Lauren Cooksey, has been among the recipients of the charity, with her family staying at the South East Queensland Chapter and the Palm Cove retreat.

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“Hearing of the additional donation that Kenfrost Homes is making to support families like my own, who have utilised Ronald McDonald House, is just absolutely amazing,” she said.

Ronald McDonald House Charities says every dollar from the event will support seriously ill children and their families.

To get involved with the Rivers of Gold bike ride, head to the Cape York Mountain Bike Adventures website.

It takes place from the 20th - 27th August.

If you'd like to donate, go to the RMHC North Australia website.

Kenfrost Homes is a huge supporter of many community groups, also sponsoring several sporting organisations including the Manunda Hawks, Mareeba and Marlin Coast Netball, Centrals Bulldogs AFL, Jamie Gosling Football Academy, Cairns District Rugby League, the Northern Pride and Cairns Basketball.

It also supports St Vincent de Paul Society, Trinity Beach State School and Redlynch State College, along with mental health charity Kick On, the Cairns Food & Wine Festival and the Cairns Amateurs Carnival.