Media Release: Warrnambool community ride raises $65,000

The Warrnambool community converged on Lake Pertobe for the return of the Powercor Tour de Depot on Sunday, raising $65,000 for local charity the Leila Rose Foundation.

Up to 500 cyclists jumped on their bikes for the community ride, with hundreds more turning out to cheer on their fellow riders.

In the competitive 20km time trial, Adam Cashmore was the fastest male, taking out the time trial in 29 minutes, 43 seconds, while Natasha Cross was the fastest female to cross the line in 35 minutes, 19 seconds. Both were awarded a $500 cash prize.

Powercor CEO, Tim Rourke said the turn out to the community festival was the best ever with hundreds flocking to Lake Pertobe for a great day of fun.

“Powercor is proud to play a key part in supporting the community who are so passionate about supporting each other.

“This is the third year we have held the Tour de Depot in Warrnambool and it just keeps getting better.

“We truly believe giving back to the regions in which we operate is an integral part of what we do and we’re thrilled to be able to help the Leila Rose Foundation make a difference and support families in need,” Mr Rourke said.

The Leila Rose Foundation provides assistance, support, and guidance to families affected by rare childhood cancer.

Founding Director, Dr Andrew Chow said the Foundation was thrilled by the support received through the Powercor Tour de Depot Warrnambool.

“The funds raised from today’s event, together with our newly formed partnership with the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute and the Royal Children’s Hospital, means we can now offer families molecular profiling.

“This ground breaking technology will provide families with needed hope in their battle as we saw in a recent case where molecular profiling was used to find a treatment for a young boy’s rare cancer.

“Our mission is to continue Leila’s legacy and make a real difference to those we assist. We are proud of what we have achieved so far and it’s a credit to the Warrnambool community who have supported us since we launched the Foundation back in 2011.

Fundraising dollars are still being accepted. For more information about the event visit tourdedepot.com.au