The annual Wall to Wall Ride for Remembrance will stream into Lakes Entrance on Friday, September 11, with local community service groups uniting to host a major luncheon stopover for participating motorcyclists.
Now in its 17th year, the national commemorative event features police officers and supporters riding from their home states to Canberra to honour fallen officers who have died in the line of duty.
Organisers emphasise that behind every kilometre traveled lies a deeply personal commitment to supporting the police community.
“Behind every kilometre is something deeper,” Wall to Wall Ride organisers said.
“Many of us have close friends and family in the police force, so this cause hits home. It’s about showing up, standing together and supporting the families of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
“Police Legacy does incredible work supporting loved ones left behind, and being part of that, year after year, is something we’re truly proud of. This ride isn’t just about bikes. It’s about respect, remembrance and community.”
The Victorian contingent will depart from the Victoria Police Memorial in Melbourne following an early morning service and official send-off.
Riders will make their way along the Princes Highway before stopping at the Lakes Entrance Youth and Recreation Hall for a barbecue lunch, refreshments and refuelling.
The catering effort is being spearheaded by the Lakes Entrance Lions Club, with support from the Lions Club of Gippsland Lakes Lionesses, the Lakes Entrance Men’s Shed, and several other local community groups.
Lakes Entrance Lions Club secretary Max White said hosting the massive contingent requires a coordinated effort across local volunteer groups.
“At this stage we are unsure how many riders there will be, but as an indication, last year when the Lions Club provided the lunchtime meal there were around 200 to 250 riders,” Mr White said.
“As you can imagine, this is a huge undertaking, and we will be ably assisted by volunteers from other clubs. Riders pay for their meal, and any profits made are donated directly back to Police Legacies across Australia. Last year, I think the donation was over $1000.”
Mr White noted that the arrival of the motorcade also brings widespread interest from local community members and school groups.
“The riders are on their own bikes, and last year I’ve never seen such a huge range of motorcycles,” Mr White said.
“A group of primary school children had great joy in sitting on various bikes and pushing police car sirens.”
Throughout the national journey, riders from each state carry a specially crafted baton hollowed out to contain the names of police officers who have lost their lives on duty. The batons will be officially presented to the chief commissioner at the National Police Memorial in Canberra at the conclusion of the ride.
In addition to serving as a solemn act of remembrance, the event functions as a vital social connection for motorcycle enthusiasts and a major fundraiser for Police Legacy organisations nationwide.
Donations from the public will be gratefully accepted at the Lakes Entrance stopover to support police families in need.
