As 212 motorbikes followed Santa out of Mudgee on the annual Toy Run on Saturday, the thoughts of many were with one absent rider.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Friends of Toy Run founder Carol Budd, who died in a road accident earlier this month, made sure she was remembered.
A group of Carol’s friends, dubbed “Carol’s Cruisers” joined the ride from Mudgee to Dunedoo, Coolah and Cassilis in a “party bus”.
“She was our best friend for 30 years and we are hoping for a big turn out here today,” said Toni Wood, a Toy Run organiser and rider for around 28 years.
“We have had a few people call to ask what time we were going down the street, because they wanted to be there for Carol. Carol had organised 30 Toy Runs and was in the midst of organising this year’s 31st run at the time of her death.
“This was the highlight of her year,” Toni said.
“She was a wonderful woman.”
Toy Run organisers have introduced a memorial trophy in her name. Carol’s Cruiser member Nicole Barnet said Carol would have loved the party bus.
“She’s not missing out this year. She’s with us.”
This year’s Toy Run collected record donations of $8000 in addition to toys, all of which go to St Vincent de Paul and Barnardos to help local families at Christmas.
Toni said one donation of $2000 came from a local business who wanted to support the cause but remain anonymous. The committee thanks the riders, community and businesses who supported this year’s Toy Run.