What’s happening?
Central Queensland riders are gearing up to take part in Mater’s Brisbane to Gold Coast Cycle for Cancer on Sunday, 12 October 2025. The iconic 100-kilometre event will see thousands of cyclists set off from South Brisbane, travel along the traffic-free South East Busway, and cruise into the Gold Coast.
Among the riders are Rockhampton locals Vicki Benson, Craig Arnold, and 12-year-old Mason Benson, who will ride with the Ray White Cycling 4 a Cure team to raise funds for cancer research.
Why it matters
The ride is more than just a physical challenge: it’s about making a difference. “Every single one of us have been touched by cancer in some way or form,” Vicki Benson said. “We just want to give back and make a difference to the future so that there’s a little bit of hope there.”
Craig Arnold, who has been in business in Rockhampton for 35 years, Arnold’s Advanced Tyre Centre, added, “It’s a cause that’s close to my heart and I’ve had so many good friends and family members that have passed away from cancer.”
For Mason, the youngest rider in the group, it’s about showing that age is no barrier to making an impact. “Mason is doing it to help fund life-saving cancer research at Mater,” his family said.
Local impact
The Rockhampton and Yeppoon community has strongly backed the Ray White Cycle for a Cure team, helping them raise funds to support cancer patients now and into the future. The team’s fundraising supports a group of 60+ researchers, led by Associate Professor Adam Ewing and Professor Phillip Good, working on treatments and improving survival rates.
“The Central Queensland community and beyond are just fantastic,” Vicki said. “They know, they hear about it, they see our passion for the cause.”
Craig has been humbled by the backing he’s received. “Honestly I’ve been overwhelmed by the support I’ve had. It’s been great.”
By the numbers
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The Brisbane to Gold Coast Cycle for a Cure covers a distance of 100 kilometres.
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The Ray White Cycle for a Cure team includes 13 riders, with ages ranging from 12 to 62.
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Craig Arnold recently completed a 92 to 93 kilometre training ride, highlighting the scale of preparation.
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Mason Benson, just 12 years old, only started cycling in March 2025 and is preparing for his first 100-kilometre event.
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The course includes less than 450 metres of climbing, making it suitable for riders with moderate fitness.
Zoom in
Vicki said the highlight of the ride is the team spirit. “The best part about it is riding with other riders, the support you get from everybody else, the way you feel a part of a team.”
Craig is training hundreds of kilometres each week, noting the personal benefits too. “There’s two reasons. I’m doing a good thing for cancer and plus I’m helping my overall health.”
Mason’s effort has inspired many. Having taken up cycling just months ago, he is calling on the community for support. A $25 donation could help fund research materials and testing, $50 could support personalised treatments, and $100 could help launch a clinical trial.
Zoom out
While the ride has traditionally been dominated by the southeast, Central Queensland’s involvement shows the strength of regional communities. “Traditionally, this ride has been down in the southeast corner,” Vicki said. “But the Mater Foundation is throughout Queensland and yeah, we’re punching above our weight up here.”
What to look for next
Registrations for 2025 have closed, but the Ray White Cycling 4 a Cure team is aiming to reach its fundraising target in the next two weeks. Community members can already register interest for the 2026 event.
“We’ve just got that little bit further to go to reach our goal,” Vicki said. “We’re so appreciative of Rockhampton, Yeppoon and the community.
