Riding Peaks Challenge is a huge personal achievement. Why not pay it forward and fundraise for Ride2School?
Bicycle Network's Ride2School program seeks to get kids on their bikes so they can reap the benefits of riding. We work to instill a lifelong love of riding, resulting in not only less congestion on school streets but also better health outcomes down the line.
But with funding for the program recently cut, we can't do it without your help. Fundraising for Ride2School helps us develop and implement active travel initiatives such as:
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ActiveMaps – co-designed with students to create fun, colourful maps that highlight the safest and most enjoyable routes to school.
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Bike Education – giving students the skills and confidence to ride safely and independently.
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ActivePaths – vibrant stickers along school routes that make the journey fun and easy to follow, fostering independent active travel.
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Bike Buses – where students, parents and teachers ride together in a joyful convoy to school, building community, confidence and smiles with every turn of the pedals.
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Open Streets – transforming busy roads outside schools into safe, playful spaces for families to ride, walk and connect.
Read on to hear the stories of some of the legends who fundraised through Peaks Challenge 2025.
Dave Wichmann
Dave has ridden eight Peaks Challenges and fundraised twice so far. He says he was motivated to fundraise because he wanted to encourage kids to be more active.
"I just feel kids need help to get out from behind devices and do the basic outdoors-type things we did growing up. I rode to school and loved it. My kids didn't because it wasn't safe and there was nowhere to secure the bike."
His top tip for fundraising? "Start early. Incorporate it into your training. Post regularly on Instagram and don't be afraid to ask people for support. The worst they can do is say no, right?"
Jeremy Young
Although Jeremy was initially attracted to the raw challenge of Peaks as a first-time rider in 2025, he was keen to fundraise to give his ride a sense of purpose.
"I wanted to do my part and help a new generation discover the freedom and joy of cycling, just like I have," he said.
"I was really touched by all the generosity and support I received," he said. "It's always best to stay authentic, share your passion and remember the incredible difference you are making for the kids, one pedal stroke at a time."
Heidi Sick
Heidi took part in Peaks for the first time in 2025 and chose to fundraise for Ride2School because she'd seen the program's effects herself.
"As a mum of two boys who used to ride to primary school, I've seen firsthand how programs like this encourage kids to get active and enjoy the freedom of riding," she said. "Supporting it felt like a no-brainer."
She encourages fundraisers to tell their stories as a way of boosting donations. "Share why you're riding and why the cause matters to you," she said. "A heartfelt story connects with people and encourages support. And continue to engage through your networks, work, school and sports."
If you're taking part in Peaks Challenge 2026, we'd love for you to follow in Dave, Jeremy and Heidi's footsteps and set up a fundraising campaign to get Australia's kids moving again. You can get started here.
And if you're not taking part, you can donate to a fundraising rider or directly to the Ride2School program here.
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