Not many charities based on the Beaches can claim a reach stretching to the furthest corners of outback Australia. Royal Far West can, and their centenary year is already proving it. With $430,000 raised, a new CEO in Dr Briony Scott, and a Manly beach event still to come, 2026 is shaping up to be one of their biggest yet.

Each year, cyclists head out on a multi-day ride across regional NSW, raising vital funds and awareness for the developmental, behavioural and mental health services that help transform the lives of country children. This year's ride
was no exception.

From 17 to 20 May, 64 cyclists pedalled more than 300 kilometres across Western and Far West NSW, beginning in Parkes and travelling through Molong, Manildra, Trundle, and Eugowra before finishing in Forbes. They weathered downpours of rain and pushed their bodies hard across four days on the road, raising $430,000 to fund developmental, behavioural and mental health services for country children and their families.

"Ride for Country Kids is more than a physical challenge, it's an opportunity to connect with the communities we support and see firsthand the positive difference Royal Far West makes," said Dr Briony Scott, CEO of Royal Far West. "It's also an opportunity to raise awareness of the need for improved access to paediatric services in rural areas."

Dr Briony Scott is herself something of a landmark appointment. Taking the reins on 4 May 2026, she follows the steady hand of Mark Driessen, who led the organisation as Acting CEO from December 2025. With more than 30 years of senior leadership experience and a career built around the holistic wellbeing of young people, she brings considerable weight to the role. As Principal of Wenona for fourteen years and Roseville College for five, she became one of Australia's most respected voices across education and community. In 2022 she was named Principal of the Year (Non-Government) and recognised among the AFR's Top 5 Most Powerful People in Australian Education. She is currently Deputy Chair of the Chris O'Brien Lifehouse and has held board roles across health and education nationally.

"I am honoured to become Royal Far West's new CEO. This is an organisation with both a remarkable legacy and a clear future role. The challenge now is not only to continue delivering high-quality care, but to extend that impact so more children and families can access support earlier and more consistently," Dr Scott said.

Coming up in November, the Royal Far West Spin Off returns to Manly Beach. Keep an eye on royalfarwest.org.au for dates and details, and if the ride has inspired you to get involved, head to give.royalfarwest.org.au/go-beyond to make a donation. •‍

(02) 8966 8500  

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