A Margaret River personal training business has reached out to the local community to take part in a fundraiser for the WIRES Wildlife Rescue bushfire appeal.
Hustle Mummas owner Marnie Ross said she was overwhelmed by the response to the fundraiser, held on January 25.
After seeing the devastation caused by the Eastern States fires, Ms Ross approached regular collaborator and friend, Paul Iles from the Hairy Marron Cafe.
"This was my third ladies social mountain bike ride I've organised with Paul," explained Ms Ross. "It started out as an idea to get mums and ladies out socialising and into the sport, previously being a free event.
"When I received a lot of interest, I approached Paul who was keen to be involved, and even came along as a guide and helped coach beginners.
"He also offered discounted bike hire and free coffee and tea after each of the rides.
"I approached Paul again to organise another ride, but instead of being a free event we would run it as a fundraiser for WIRES."
Participants donated a $20 entry fee, and were encouraged to help spread the word of the event and call for prize donations through social media and word of mouth.
"The response was amazing, I was offered so many vouchers and all were from small businesses like Paul and myself wanting to help in some way. Soon our raffle hamper was valued at over $1600!"
Shortly before the ride, Ms Ross was approached by Malcom Evans from West Cape Wealth Management Services, who was keen to help out.
"Malcolm very generously offered to match dollar for dollar all money raised!"
The response was amazing, I was offered so many vouchers and all were from small businesses wanting to help in some way.
- Marnie Ross
Nine riders set out on the ride, receiving expert coaching from Mr Iles as they cycled through picturesque bush.
"To top it all off, the winner of the raffle was one of our participants Kaitlyn Jackson," said Ms Ross.
With Mr Evans' generous offer, what was originally hoped to achieve $1000 in donations resulted in an impressive $2700 to WIRES.
Donations were also received from Hustle Mummas, Arise Osteopathy, Elemental Bodyworks, Payet Gallery, Busselton Books, The Hairy Marron, Eden Aesthetics, BodyBliss Margaret River, Judith Fordham, Margaret River Rascals, Margaret River VIP Home Gardening Services, Alexa Nehter (Body Tune Up) and Bloom Healing.
"I have been blown away by the result, all businesses who have contributed are small businesses or sole traders like myself," said Ms Ross.
"A huge reason for our success of course was the generous offer from Malcom and West Cape Wealth Management, and a special mention to Paul from the Hairy Marron, who once again came out on his day off to help guide and share his expert knowledge.
"We are very lucky to have such a wonderful local community!"
