The organisers behind the much-loved Newcastle Toy Run are revved up for another successful showing in 2023.
After formally launching the event, in the form of a show and shine at The Station last month, preparations continue to fall into place for when the participants arrive at Connolly Park, Carrington, between 9am and 1pm on Sunday 3 December.
Coordinated by Bikers for Kids, the Newcastle Toy Run is entering its 46th year of helping local families in need.
During that time, it’s contributed significantly to The Salvation Army Hunter Christmas Appeal for more than three decades, with in excess of $500,000 worth of gifts and donations generated.
“We’re immensely grateful for the generous support provided by this iconic event and the many thousands of riders who take part,” Hunter and Central Coast area officer Major Mark Everitt said.
“Through the bequest of funds and toys, we can directly assist local families who are doing it tough.
“And, we simply couldn’t do this without Bikers For Kids and community support.
“We extend heartfelt gratitude and congratulations to the organisation and ride participants.”
Through the staging of the Newcastle Toy Run, a diverse group of motorcycling enthusiasts, as well as the general public and local business owners, are given the opportunity to build awareness, collectively donate gifts and raise much-needed funds for distribution to needy children and families in the region.
“Christmas can be a stressful time of year for many people, especially parents and carers,” Bikers for Kids chairman Daryn Young said.
“Knowing we have the ability to help so many children throughout the Hunter who are in need is an absolute rush.
“It’s why we keep doing what we are doing.”
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said City of Newcastle was also proud to support the Newcastle Toy Run.
She congratulated Bikers for Kids for its outstanding efforts in organising this important community event.
“Since its inception 46 years ago, the Newcastle Toy Run has become an adored addition to the Newcastle events calendar,” Cr Nelmes said.
“From the spectacle of seeing thousands of motorcycles make the journey together to Carrington to the joy of taking part in the festivities of the family fun day and the generosity it encourages within our community to donate gifts for those who otherwise might miss out at Christmas, it’s terrific to be involved.
“City of Newcastle is proud to be a long-standing supporter of the Newcastle Toy Run.
“It brings so much happiness to children and families in need across Newcastle and the Hunter each year.”
Impressively, the Newcastle Toy Run is the oldest annual event of its kind in Australia and the only Transport for NSW and NSW Police-approved and escorted ride.
Participants are encouraged to register via the website for and join in the spirit of the extravaganza for great prizes on the day.
“The Newcastle Toy Run is an extraordinary sensory experience for people of all ages and backgrounds,” Mr Young explained.
“Everyone’s invited to get involved in the action and enjoy the arrival of bikes at the new end location Connolly Park, Carrington, between 9am and 1pm on 3 December.
“The park will come alive with a massive donation point for unwrapped gifts, a showcase of thousands of decorated motorcycles, musical entertainment, market stalls and trade displays, free rides and amusements for the kids, and plenty of food and drink options, official merchandise, the Salvation Army Christmas Appeal Collection, the Annual Toy Run Motorcycle Raffle Prize Draw and, most importantly, lots of fun.”
Online donations, rider registrations and more information can be found at newcastletoyrun.com.au
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