The annual Bondi2Berry bike ride, to raise funds and awareness for Dementia Australia, will be having a pit stop in Kiama tomorrow, in recognition of our internationally recognised dementia-friendly initiatives.

This year, popular SBS Tour de France commentator Mike Tomalaris will be lending a hand – hyping riders up on the start line in Bondi, supporting the Mayor and the team during the Kiama pitstop (due at Hindmarsh Park, 11am), and welcoming the finishers into Berry.

“More Australians are exposed to the effects of dementia than ever before,” says Mike.

“I’m directly affected by the disease through the struggles of a family member. I’m happy to support and endorse the annual Bondi2Berry ride in a bid to help tackle this horrible illness.”

Cycling commentator Mike Tomalaris

Dementia is the second leading cause of death of Australians and the leading cause of death among women.

In 2020, there were an estimated 472,000 Australians living with the condition.

Organiser Nick Young says Kiama is one of the highlights of the ride, which this year will have 150 fully vaccinated riders.

“As a local government area with a commitment to being dementia friendly, it’s wonderful to be able to stop and interact with the community.”

For Dementia Awareness Month in September, Council recognised three Dementia Champions in the community:

• Dennis Frost – chairman of Kiama’s Dementia Action Group. Living with frontotemporal dementia, he is highly sought after as a global speaker on dementia issues.
• Graham Fairbairn – a carer for his wife Robyn who is living with dementia, who has recently started a monthly Blokes Caring Support Group to support men like him
• Lynda Henderson – who cares for her friend Veda who was diagnosed with dementia in 2012. Lynda gave evidence at the recent Aged Care Royal Commission on the difficulties experienced by those living with dementia and their carers.

Since its inception, the Bondi2Berry rides have raised $666,500 for Dementia Australia. Help increase that total by donating this year.