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Riding From Perth to Melbourne. For Brain Cancer

Charity
June 1, 2026

From Perth to Melbourne, across three states and more than 3,600 kilometres, Renascent's Victorian General Manager David Woolsey has completed an extraordinary cycling challenge, raising over $67,000 for brain cancer research.

Fifteen consecutive days. Four time zones. Countless kilometres of open road. And one very important cause.

From 9 to 23 May, David Woolsey traded his usual responsibilities as Renascent's Victorian General Manager for life in the saddle, embarking on an ambitious cycling journey from Perth to Melbourne in support of Carrie Bickmore's Beanies for Brain Cancer charity.

Joined by his brother as his support crew, David tackled more than 3,600 kilometres across Australia, enduring relentless headwinds, long days, physical exhaustion and plenty of discomfort along the way.

What began as a personal challenge quickly became something much bigger, bringing together colleagues, friends, family and supporters from across the country to raise vital funds and awareness for brain cancer research.

15 Days. No Rest Days. One Big Challenge.

Cycling across the country is no small feat, particularly when the goal is to complete the journey in just 15 consecutive days.

From the vast stretches of Western Australia's outback to the final kilometres into Melbourne, each day brought its own challenges.

The journey demanded enormous physical endurance and mental determination, with David pushing through difficult weather conditions, fatigue and the inevitable toll of spending day after day on a bicycle.

Along the way, the ride was fuelled by plenty of encouragement, 12 bacon and egg rolls and approximately one and a half tins of cycling chamois cream.

But behind the impressive distances and lighter moments was a much more meaningful motivation.

Going the Distance for Brain Cancer Research

Brain cancer remains one of Australia's most devastating cancers, affecting individuals and families across the country.

Through his ride, David set out to raise awareness and support the critical research needed to improve outcomes for people diagnosed with the disease.

The response was extraordinary.

Supporters rallied behind the challenge, donating, following the journey online, sharing messages of encouragement and cheering David on as he made his way across the country.

By the time he crossed the finish line in Melbourne, the ride had raised more than $67,000 for Beanies for Brain Cancer, an incredible result that far exceeded the scale of the original personal challenge.

Reflecting on the experience, David shared:

"We really hope you enjoyed the journey as much as we did, it's something I will never forget. It's also a powerful reminder that when you truly commit and focus on achieving something, the outcome has a way of taking care of itself."

An Extraordinary Effort for an Important Cause

David's achievement is a powerful example of what can happen when a personal goal becomes an opportunity to make a meaningful difference.

A special acknowledgement goes to David's father and brother for their support throughout the journey, and to everyone who donated, followed along and helped spread the word.

3,600 kilometres across Australia. More than $67,000 raised. And an impact that extends far beyond the finish line.

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