100 riders celebrate 100 years of RFW

The Royal Far West (RFW) marked 100 years of supporting children and families in rural and remote Australia with 100 riders getting on their bikes last week for a three-day 380km tour through Bourke, Cobar, Nyngan, Warren and Narromine. The peloton heading out of Cobar on the Barrier Highway on Friday morning▪ Photo contributed
The peloton leaving Cobar on Friday after their visit to St John’s School. ▪ Photo contributed
RFW CEO Jacqui Emery with riders and support staff on the Kidman Way on Thursday at the Cobar Gumnuts Coffee Van (which kept the 100 riders caffeinated throughout the ride) ▪ Photo contributed

The Royal Far West’s Ride for Country Kids 2025, which passed through Cobar on Thursday and Friday, has now officially wrapped up!

The event was the Royal Far West’s biggest Ride ever with 100 riders taking part in Royal Far West’s 100th year. It reconnected with Royal Far West’s past and will help to ensure a stronger future for country kids.

CEO of Royal Far West, Jacqui Emery said this year’s Ride was more than just a journey – it was a powerful statement of commitment to go beyond for country kids.

Covering 380km across Far West NSW, riders engaged with local communities and raised $820,000 for the Royal Far West’s important work with country kids.

And donations are still coming in.

Ms Emery said this year’s result has surpassed their fundraising goal and will ensure more children in rural and remote Australia receive the critical health services they need.

She said the ride embodies everything Royal Far West stands for – going beyond for country kids.

“Seeing 100 riders take on this challenge in celebration of 100 years is incredibly moving, and thanks to their dedication and the generosity of our supporters, we’ve exceeded our fundraising expectations,” Ms Emery said.

“These funds will help deliver life-changing services to the country kids who need them most.”

This year’s event also reinforced Royal Far West’s commitment to creating lasting change with a new three-year partnership announced with the Bourke and District Children’s Services to expand essential early intervention services for children aged 0-6.

“This partnership is a game-changer for Bourke and surrounding communities,” Ms Emery said.

“We’re not just riding through these towns – we’re making sure country kids in these regions get the services they need now and into the future.”

Country hospitality was on show with the  Ride for Country Kids peloton warmly welcomed by the Bourke, Cobar, Hermidale, Trangie, Nevertire, Nyngan and Dubbo communities.

RFW’s fundraising branches, Country Women’s Association, Isolated Children’s and Parents Association, Royal Flying Doctor Service among others helped to support the event.

The dedicated riders also pushed themselves to their limits for this important cause