REINDEER led the way in a course through town marked by pink ribbons for leather-clad and tinsel riders.
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Their Santa-like mission was to collect toys, raise money and create awareness of the city’s most needy have a merrier time this Christmas.
Almost 400 motorbikes roared into action on Saturday, making sure everyone heard them pass from Buninyong through Mount Clear and Sebastopol to Victoria Park for the annual Central Highlands Toy Run.
Councillor Samantha McIntosh joined the loud, sparkly and festive procession for the first time as the city’s mayor and was blown away by the generous spirit of riders and supporters.
“To have hundreds of riders out together gives an important message,” Cr McIntosh said.
“Christmas is special – it is about giving, it is about caring for the community and hopefully the hum of mufflers will mean many people along the road hear us coming, look up, take note and maybe throw in a few toys for a special cause.”
Central Highlands Ulysses president Sharryn Nankervis said the most magical part in the ride was seeing the hundreds of riders entering Vic Park in one loud moving mass.
The convoy had a fire brigade escort with trucks from Napoleons, Sebastopol, Wendouree and Ballarat City sounding their horns and flashing their lights.
They carried out their duties with the Red Knights - the Country Fire Authority’s serving and retired members out on motorbikes.
Club and casual riders got into the Christmas spirit, strapping Santas and reindeer to the fronts of their vehicles, or securing giant teddy bears in for the ride. Of course, everything was decked out in tinsel.
Ballarat community men’s sheds cooked up a sausage sizzle for hungry riders once their run was finished. Toy Run badges were also sold to add to the day’s appeal.
All donations will boost the 3BA Christmas Appeal, helping more than 4000 families across the Ballarat region this Christmas.
The appeal supports welfare work of UnitingCare, Anglicare, St Vincent de Paul and the Salvation Army.
Central Highlands Ulysses hosted the annual ride in partnership with Red Knights Ballarat.
If you would like to donate presents (unwrapped), non-perishable food items or money to the 3BA Christmas appeal, visit 3BA on Lydiard Street.