By CASEY NEILL
GREATER Dandenong detectives will spend 24 hours on their bikes to support sick kids.
The Greater Dandenong CIU Cycling Club will participate in the Murray to Moyne team cycle relay event on 28 and 29 March.
The annual event attracts 1600 competitors who cycle the 520 kilometres in relay from Echuca to Port Fairy in 24 hours.
Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Dean Hayes said teams must raise funds for a local health care provider to take part.
The team rides for Southern Health, specifically the Dandenong Hospital’s children’s ward and has raised $55,000 over the past six years.
“The children’s ward at the Dandenong Hospital caters for up to 18 patients at a time,” Act Sen Sgt Hayes said.
“The medical staff are always in need of new machinery and equipment to enable them to continue to provide high quality care to their patients.
“I see this as a great opportunity for my members to further assist the community in which they work and at the same time improve their fitness and team work.”
About 30 riders and support crew will take part.
“It’s a big day, but it’s worth it in the end,” Act Sen Sgt Hayes said.
The officers have held trivia nights, barbecues and a cricket match to raise money.
They pay for their own travel, accommodation and food so every cent they collect goes to the hospital.
Call Greater Dandenong CIU on 9767 7634 to support the bike ride.
