Ride Against Drugs Speech- House of Representatives

Today I’d like to speak about the Ride against Drugs group operating in my electorate and the work they do for youth in Bonner.

I met with co-founder and director Max Cooper to hear all about the RAD movement. Max and his partner Tracy founded the group in 1996 with the aim of creating a community of young BMX, freestyle, dirt trail riders, and skaters who embody the drug free message and lead by example.

RAD has come a long way since 1996 enlisting thousands of program recruits, sponsors and mentors in many different parts of Australia including my electorate of Bonner.

I was honoured to be able to recognise one of the local riders as an outstanding student role model within our community as part of my Bonner Volunteer awards for 2016. 15-year-old Zac Pankhurst was awarded the volunteer student award for his commitment to being an anti-drug ambassador for local youth. We all know that when people are involved with drugs at a young age it’s often harder to break the cycle, which is why the Ride against Drugs movement is so very important.

RAD deserves congratulations for the tireless work they do within my community, all delivered purely on donations and monies raised.

For anyone who would like to sign up or get involved, this Sunday RAD is holding a Ride Jam at 10am at the Lota Skate Park in Bonner complete with free bbq for riders and families, prize competitions, and a special show from the RAD lead pro team.

Thank you.

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