$1m raised for at-risk youth

Thirty-six Brisbane business leaders have officially raised more than $1 million for charity organisation TRACTION, to help support at-risk youth.

The funds were raised through the inaugural BEYOND Cycling Challenge as part of TRACTION’s biggest fundraising campaign.

Participants cycled for five days across 800km at a total elevation of 10,303m.

The BEYOND riders departed from Ipswich on April 15 and rode through Toowoomba, Killarney, Cullendore, Carr’s Lookout and the Gold Coast before heading back to Brisbane via Alexandra Hills on April 19.

Surpassing the original goal of $750,000, the money will help 250 young people unlock their potential through learning and mentoring programs.

At the end of term one, 2024, TRACTION has helped more than 50 Moreton Bay youth from schools including Mt Maria College Petrie, Albany Creek SHS, Pine Rivers SHS, Bray Park SHS and Deception Bay.

TRACTION founder and CEO Sandy Murdoch also took part in the challenge and says he is extremely grateful.

“I’m so grateful to all 36 riders who tirelessly trained for this challenge and pushed beyond both physical and mental demands, our event sponsors and those supporters who have contributed to our first BEYOND Cycling Challenge,” he says.

“Since 2015, TRACTION has helped more than 2,400 young people and I’m excited for the many more young people we’ll be able to help with the funds raised from this challenge.

“Queensland is experiencing significant challenges with youth crime and incarceration, and many young people need extra support.

“We know 1 in 10 young people are disengaging from education, 1 in 4 have a mental health challenge and unfortunately, more young people are dying from suicide than any other cause.

“Our TRACTION programs provide an early-intervention solution, and we believe investing in prevention is the best option.”

For more information and to donate, visit the website.