More than 200 motorcyclists are revving their engines across Australia - including a group departing from North Sydney - to mark the start of The Long Ride 2025, a two-week journey raising awareness and funds for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA).
The event comes as new data reveals prostate cancer has reached its highest rate on record, with more than 29,000 Australian men expected to be diagnosed this year and around 4,000 to die from the disease.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) prostate cancer is Australia's most commonly diagnosed cancer, now accounting for around 30% of all cancers in men. If current trends continue, up to 35,000 men could be diagnosed annually by 2035.
Founded in 2004 by former RAAF officer Chris Dunne OAM and his wife Gail, The Long Ride has become a national movement, drawing riders from every state to travel through towns and communities across Australia, sparking vital conversations about early testing for prostate cancer and men's health.
Chris Dunne OAM, Founder of The Long Ride, said the event has grown into much more than a motorcycle adventure.
"What started as a small idea in 2004 has now raised millions for research and support, helping the PCFA reach men who might otherwise not hear the message - get your PSA levels checked."
The riders travel through New South Wales and Victoria before heading west across the country, visiting local communities and hosting awareness events along the way.
Hon. Jim Lloyd, PCFA Ambassador and Spokesperson, said the event plays a critical role in driving awareness across regional and rural Australia.
"These latest figures are a stark reminder that prostate cancer remains Australia's most diagnosed cancer - and it doesn't just affect men in the cities," said Mr Lloyd.
"The Long Ride helps us take the message of early testing to every corner of the country, encouraging men to talk to their GP and take action early."
For Robert Emerson the ride is deeply personal. Diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer at age 55 after a routine check-up, he says the experience changed his life.
"I had no symptoms and no idea anything was wrong. If I hadn't gone for that check-up, I might not be here today," Mr Emerson said.
"Joining The Long Ride gives me a way to give back and remind other men to have that conversation with their GP. A simple test could save your life."
PCFA CEO Anne Savage praised Mr Emerson and his fellow riders for their incredible contribution.
"Every kilometre covered on the Long Ride helps drive awareness, raises life-saving funds, and brings men's health into the spotlight. We're deeply grateful to all the Long Riders for going the distance," Ms Savage said.
The Long Ride 2025 officially departs tomorrow, with riders setting off from locations nationwide - including Blues Point Reserve, North Sydney - marking the beginning of a journey that will stretch across thousands of kilometres, raising awareness, funds, and hope for the future of men's health.
