From the Porter Report February 2007 - ON YOUR BIKE

Mary with Judy Perry

Mary Porter led the parade as she rode pillion for Motorcycle Riders Association President Peter Major when they were joined over 1,200 Canberra bike riders for the annual Christmas Toy Run in a procession that stretched over several kilometres as they rode with a police escort from Old Parliament House to Garema Place via Woden.

The event, now in its 26th year, raised over $3,500 in cash for the Smith Family and over $5,000 worth of toys for the Salvos. The collection was distributed among needy Canberra families for Christmas.

Mary with Zac and Dene Basnett

Among the bikers to participate were many of Canberra's Posties who made a significant contribution to the toys collected and also added to the occasion by dressing their already bright red delivery cycles with a range of Christmas decorations.

Many other riders added to the festivities by dressing in the spirit and Mary Porter, together with her Assembly colleague Mick Gentleman, judged the best dressed riders.

Since its inception cash and toys to the value of $75,000 have been raised by the Toy Run adding to the fundraising efforts of the MRA who also conduct their annual blanket appeal before winter as well as the ride and fundraiser they have during Breast Cancer Awareness Week.

"I have been involved in all these MRA activities since becoming a Member of the Legislative Assembly" Mary said "and I think these events do a great deal to help breakdown the false stereotype that still exists among some in the community with respect to bike riders."

"With the price of petrol and the concern over greenhouse gas emissions, more and more people are becoming bikers and I congratulate the MRA for all the work they are doing in our community both to make us more aware of motorbike related issues and also raising money for great causes" Mary said.