Bike party raises funds for preschools

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 13, Issue 597, 1 August 1995, Page 5

Bike party raises funds for preschools

Waiouru' s early childhood centres got a financial boost last week and were promised more, from what some may think an unlikely source. One thousand dollars was dished out by the Mid-Winter Rage committee to Waiouru Playcentre, Kohanga Reo, Plunket as well as the Weir Terrace and Kenningston kindergartens. Some are still to decide what to do with their $200. Kenningston will buy a civil defence kit and Plunket will be buying a car seat, said 'Rage' co-ordinator Bobby Vine. "We're looking at injecting $2000 back into the community next year," he said. The Mid-Winter Rage is a locally-run bikers' event that has been held twice before, last year attracting around 800 people. A mixed reaction by Waiouru locals saw soldiers banned from the first rage, but last year the ban was lifted and some soldiers participated with their beloved beasts — including Harleys and Triumphs.

"Even though the people who come to it may be rugged and worldly they're still community people," co-organ-iser Maggie Vine said. The next rage is scheduled for 13 September and the rage committee are encouraging attendance of families by offering free day entry to locals. This year' s rage involves a lot of community input with local hotelier Abe Hepi organising the bar and Mark Pitts providing 'surround sound' for morning wake-up calls and ongoing entertainment. A variety of competitions will be held including body art, a weanie snatch, shanghai shoot and various bike events. Three bands will play and food and drink will be available on-site. Pre-paid entry is to be $20 while entry at the gate will cost $25. There will be a $10 charge for people wishing to attend only one night. A shuttle will be provided throughout the three days with the 'pink van' being brought back into commission for the duration.