Toy Run modified in response to predicted wet weather

Organisers of the Motorcycle Riders’ Association SA (MRASA) Toy Run have announced that this Sunday’s Toy Run (10 December) will be scaled back due to the predicted wet weather.

The traditional ride from Victoria Park to Callington Oval in the Adelaide Hills will be replaced with a shorter ride around the roads surrounding Victoria Park, so that people who want to participate and donate toys to Vinnies can still do so in a safer environment. The event typically provides up to 4,000 toys which are then distributed by Vinnies volunteers to families in the lead up to Christmas.

MRASA Secretary and Toy Run coordinator Cathy Lux said the association was disappointed that the event wouldn’t go ahead in its usual form, but that rider safety was paramount.

‘Promoting motorcycle road safety is an important part of the MRASA’s purpose, so of course we don’t wish to place any riders at risk due to inclement weather,’ she said.

‘Having said that, we would love to see riders and others head to Victoria Park to donate toys and gifts so that families assisted by Vinnies can celebrate Christmas like everyone else.

‘If conditions don’t allow that, or for anyone else who would like to contribute but can’t attend on Sunday, online donations can be made at https://vinnies.link/ToyRun23
Vinnies volunteers will use the funds to ensure no one misses out on Christmas day.’

Vinnies SA CEO Evelyn O’Loughlin said the organisation remained indebted to the Toy Run organisers and riders who have helped brighten Christmas day for thousands of families over four decades.

‘I know that an incredible amount of work goes into the Toy Run and I feel for the organisers.

‘I also know that when times are tough, South Australians are a generous bunch, so I am sure we will see a great response to help make Christmas a time of celebration during this cost-of-living crisis,’ Ms O’Loughlin said.

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UPDATED EVENT INFORMATION
What: MRASA Toy Run supporting Vinnies
When: Sunday 10 December
Where: Victoria Park/Pakapakanthi, Adelaide

Order of events:
• From 8.30am - toys and gifts can be dropped at Victoria Park 
• 11am - weather permitting, Santa will lead riders in a short ride around the perimeter of Victoria Park from 11am
• Online donations can be made at https://vinnies.link/ToyRun23
• The Callington Oval family day has been cancelled

For further information or interview, please contact:
Vinnies: Jo Dinnison 0419 940 721 or jdinnison@svdpsa.org.au.
MRASA: Cathy Lux 0408 853 380
Event information at https://www.mrasa.asn.au/toyrun.shtml