The ride is three days, 375 kilometres and three rivers. It will take place between March 23 and 25. This is by far the biggest challenge Kerrie has undertaken on a bike.

“We will be raising awareness and monies to fund a room at Macquarie Home Stay, which will provide affordable accommodation for both patients and families requiring treatment in Dubbo,” she said.

“This is a cause that is close to my heart because in 2009 my father, Pat Walsh, lost his battle with pancreatic cancer, a battle he had no chance of winning because it had him before we knew it.”

Mrs Cooper said there are many people out west who are going through similar experiences.

“There are many more out here in the Western Region going through battles with various cancers and to have a home away from home is very important in their fight as it gives them a place where they can have family and friends visit, stay and give support.  A place where they can be comfortable when they are feeling at their lowest,” she said.

“You never know what’s around the corner – you too might need this facility one day.”

“All too often I see the end result of this disease and you wish you could change the outcome.  This is my way of doing something towards one day changing that outcome and if that means I have to sit on my backside and pedal for three days in the heat, dodging the wildlife then so be it, it’s got to be easier than what those suffering from cancer are having to do every day”.

Mrs Cooper is asking everyone to dig deep for the ride. 

“It’s going to be tough and that’s why we really need your help. Our goal is to raise $25,000,” she said.

“Your donation will keep us motivated and provide a home away from home for Cancer patients from the Western region.  That’s a win all round.”

To make a donation visit: https://www.gofundme.com/back-o-bourke-ride-for-cancer-2017

“Thanks for your support!  Come out and cheer us on as we ride into town on Thursday, March 23 sometime in the mid afternoon,” Mrs Cooper said.