Life Cycle fundraising event arrives back in Busselton for 25th year

The annual Life Cycle fundraising ride arrived in Busselton earlier this week after an epic ride from Bassendean. More than 150 riders, supported by volunteers, cycled over three days to raise funds for Canteen Australia — an organisation dedicated to helping and supporting young people impacted by cancer. The route for the dedicated cyclists included the Tonkin Highway and roads parallel to the South Western Highway to Pinjarra on day one of the ride, and then heading to Brunswick on day two. On the third and final day, three groups rode through Donnybrook and Capel, while another two groups passed through Dardanup and Capel, before riding through the Tuart Forest, then to Busselton. This year marked the 25th anniversary of the Life Cycle event which has cemented itself as the largest community fundraiser for Canteen, entirely run by volunteers. Since its inception in 1998, Life Cycle has raised more than $2.7 million to support young people across the nation. Ride co-ordinator Jenny Aramini has seen the event grow from humble beginnings and now takes pride in seeing it thrive. “I’ve had the pleasure of watching Life Cycle flourish over the past 25 years,” she said. “Each year, I am blown away by all of the support we receive and, in return, are able to give back to those in need. I can’t wait to see what the next 25 years hold.” “I keep coming back because of what Life Cycle does for me, and because what Life Cycle does for Canteen,” he said. “Life Cycle has been a massive part of my journey as a member of Canteen. I became a member of Canteen when my Dad was diagnosed with cancer in 2012. “My Mum was later diagnosed with breast cancer and Canteen services were made available to me throughout that difficult time. “This is the perfect opportunity for me to give back to Canteen and show my appreciation for the support they gave me.” Canteen Australia chief executive Peter Orchard was present to see the riders off on their journey at the starting line in Bassendean. “The work that Jenny and all of the volunteers have done for Life Cycle over the past 25 years is incomparable. Their unwavering support and efforts are what make this event so successful,” he said. “The funds raised by Life Cycle participants and supporters help Canteen to offer critical support for young people impacted by cancer.”