Blind cyclist Lorin Nicholson will ride into Port Macquarie today, Thursday, December 8, as part of his Brisbane-to-Melbourne Blind Courage expedition to raise $10,000 for Vision Australia.
Lorin, a classical guitarist and motivational speaker, started his 1,800km bike ride in Brisbane on December 5.
He will end the journey with a performance at Vision Australia’s Carols by Candlelight® presented by Myer, on Christmas Eve.
Lorin will be stopping at Westport Club Port Macquarie at 11.30am on Thursday, December 8.
Lorin who is 42 years old, was classed as legally blind at age four. He is one of six siblings, three of whom are blind.
He has been an athlete, children’s author and one of Australia’s leading youth motivational speakers on anti-bullying as well as being nominated for Australian of the Year in 2009.
More than 20 clubs along the way will be helping Lorin and his team, providing him with meals and accommodation.
Clubs Australia and cycling clothing specialists Cannibal have come on as sponsors helping Lorin raise vital funds to support Vision Australia’s services for people who are blind or have low vision.
Lorin said he is pushing himself to complete the ride to inspire people that anything is possible, and to raise awareness of the large number of Australians who are vision impaired.
“There are 300,000 Australians who are blind or have low vision. With an ageing population this number will grow to about 600,000 by 2020,” he said.
“Hopefully by completing this tandem bike ride I will help change the public’s perception of what blind people can do.
“I’d like to thank Westport Club Port Macquarie and their members for supporting me on my trip. Recovery is an important part of the ride each day, and that’s only possible with a hearty club meal. I hope people are able to drop by the club to say hi and to have a chat.’’
ClubsAustralia CEO Anthony Ball said clubs were keen to support Lorin in his Christmas bike ride to raise money for Vision Australia.
“Westport Club Port Macquarie has long been known for its support of local charities. It’s great but not surprising they were keen to get involved and look after Lorin and his support team as they ride through Port Macquarie.’’
Vision Australia’s CEO Mr Gerard Menses said, “I encourage everyone to show their support for Lorin. He is doing a great thing which will make a big difference to the lives of Australians who are blind or have low vision.”
To sponsor Lorin as he raises money for Vision Australia, go to: www.clubsaustralia.com.au   or        www.visionaustralia.org.au or Facebook: “BlindCourage’.
