Albany Gibbsters smash challenge fundraiser

The unforgiving Kimberley terrain of the Gibb River Road failed to deter a group of eager Albany mountain bikers who raised almost $30,000 for the Royal Flying Doctor Service in the Gibb River Challenge last week.

Led by Kenny McGonnell, who took on the team relay event in a custom-made hand-powered trike, the Albany Gibbsters completed the tough five-day 660km team relay event with aplomb. Yesterday the Albany Gibbsters had raised more than $28,000 for the RFDS after originally setting a goal of $6000.

They also raised $25,000 for Mr McGonnell’s trike, which arrived just in time before the trip to the Kimberley.

The Albany Gibbsters were made up of two teams from Bobs Bikes and Haz Beanz Finestkind Coffee, who completed the 660km adventure affectionately known as the Kimberley super highway last Thursday.

Mr McGonnell, who was left paralysed after a motor-bike accident two years ago, formed part of the Bobs Bikes team including Dave Brenzi, Jonathon Drew and Kieran Phoenix Whitaker.

Gibbsters team member Don Perfrement said the support from the Albany community had been overwhelming and the team were powered by pomegranate juice from City of Albany Cr Rob Sutton.

“The awareness has been huge and the beauty of it is it’s a challenge as well,” he said.

“We will try and keep the Albany Gibbsters together.”

Mr Perfrement thanked the community members and businesses who had made donations, including the pivotal Due South fundraiser, which was a key contributor to raising funds for Mr McGonnell’s hand cycle.