Community & Business
13 November, 2023
Concert to help Ben ride again
WHEN Ben Daley was struck by a motorbike several years ago, he thought he would never be able to ride his mountain bike again.
Mountain biking was the Millaa Millaa local’s passion, taking his bike out to the trails any day he could, but after being struck by a 15-year-old unlicensed motorbike rider, he lost his ability to move and talk.
Ben went from a happy, healthy and active young man to no longer being able to walk or talk or do the thing he loved most.
Despite facing many challenges in his early adult years, it didn’t stop Ben from finding ways to get on the back of a bike again.
With the support of his parents and a dedicated rehabilitation process, Ben has regained a significant degree of independence.
He has learned Auslan (sign language), started using assistive technology for communication, and continued his passion for mountain biking.
In 2021, he participated in the Cairns to Kurumba race, and in 2023, he rode a two-wheeler for the first time since his accident, marking a significant milestone in his recovery journey.
Ben's dream is to compete in the 2024 Cairns Crankworks competition, entering both the “Adaptive Mountain Bike Throttle” and “Adaptive Mountain Bike Non-Throttle” categories.
“My dream is to return to a sport that I have always enjoyed, and actively contribute to the Far North Queensland Mountain Biking community,” he said.
“I wish to participate, compete, and drive participation, competition, and promotion of regional Adaptive Mountain Biking.”
To achieve this dream, he requires specialised adaptive mountain bikes and safety equipment and he and his family are calling on the community to help him reach his goal.
Ben is hoping to raise a total of $68,982 to help purchase his specialised quad bike and safety equipment, and is hosting a fundraising concert to help make up the sum.
The “Bike for Ben Fundraising Concert: A Night of Music, Unity, and Inspiration” will be taking place at the Atherton International Club this Saturday 18 November from 7pm.
The concert will feature local artists Transparent Komeleon, Bigfoot Mafia, Snakeoyl, Ben Wilson, MC Pyrite, Vivian Aisi, Chaotic Disturbance and Roadkill
Entry for the event is $30 at the door, with all money raised going towards helping Ben achieve his dream.
