Riders gear up with gifts for Salvos annual toy run

Motorcyclists with big hearts will take to the street in Geraldton tomorrow in support of the annual Salvation Army Toy Run.

The Geraldton toy run is co-ordinated by members of the local chapter of Ulysses Club, a nation-wide social club for motorcyclists older than 40 years of age.

Donations of goods and cash will go to the Geraldton Salvation Army corps’ Christmas appeal.

The fundraising and donation drive will take place over a social event which will bring together bike riders of all classifications.

Organisers say as long as the bike is licensed, anything on two, or three, wheels is welcome — scooters, cruisers, tourers, cafe racers, trikes, adventure bikes, enduro bikes and more.

While large fluffy toys are popular among donations, Geraldton Salvation Army Lieutenant Jeff Milkins said a range of age-appropriate gifts was needed to pass on to children of all ages.

“Some (children) are aged up to 14, and big Christmas smiles on the faces of those older kids are just as important as the little ones,” Lt Milkins said.

“We really try not to disappoint anyone, so when you buy a gift or two for the run, try to imagine those older faces, too.” The Salvation Army Toy Run will start at 10am on Saturday.

Riders are asked to meet in the Cathedral Avenue carpark, between the SGIO building and Woolworths Petrol, at 9.30am.

The procession is expected in Marine Terrace about 10.30am, enroute to the foreshore.

The toy run has been held in Australia since 1978.