The Red Shield Appeal Launch

So the whole point of riding around Tasmania for the last 6 days has been to raise awareness of and funds for the Red Shield Appeal. 

We made it!  The Red Shield Ride's complete!

As we arrived in Hobart today, the State Premier, the Hon Will Hodgman and The Salvation Army's Divisional Commander, Major Ritchie Watson, launched this years appeal in Elizabeth Street Mall.  The Premier opened the appeal with a donation for $30,000 from the State Government, for which we are very grateful. 

Stuart telling the Premier about our day.

It was great to see so many people at this event, especially the members of our Tasmanian Advisory Board to The Salvation Army.  There were heaps of camera's and it was the ideal opportunity today to voice the needs of many in our communities for whom life is often too difficult.  The Salvation Army is committed to 'Caring for People' from every walk of life.  We seek to help at the point of need and if necessary to walk folk as we work towards 'Transforming Lives'. 

A little photobomb of the Premier as he Launches this years Red Shield Ride.

In many respects the ride I undertook over the last 6 days has been a reflection of this ministry.  It isn't always easy.  Occasionally it's possible to find a simple solution;  other times you've just got to work through it.  It's at these points when being surrounded by positive and encouraging people can make all the difference.  There are moments of great satisfaction though, and on the whole it is incredibly rewarding to be a part of.

The Riders with 'Shieldy'.

If you haven't already sponsored a rider or made a donation to the Red Shield Ride, I would still love your support!  You don't have to sponsor me, each of the other riders who joined me worked hard and deserve the encourage your sponsorship will bring.  Most importantly though are those who will benefit from your sponsorship over the next year - each gift helps the Salvos to make a difference.

Will you please help us? 

You can do so by clicking here.

Major Steve Miller sneaking a selfie with the Premier.

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