Second annual toy run kicks off

Phillip Island’s second annual charity toy run will be on December 10, with a route taking riders from Tooradin to Cowes.

Following the success of the inaugural event last year, Cowes parents Sam and Jason Hampstead – who run Dead4Eva in Thompson Avenue – have again organised the run, which will leaving the Pelican Cafè in Tooradin at 11.30am.

The ride will follow the South Gippsland and Bass Highway through San Remo, with the final stop at 12.30pm, at the Phillip Island Baptist Church, on the corner of Settlement and Dunsmore roads, Cowes, with the event finishing at 4pm.

“A group will be leaving Dead4Eva Designs Cowes at 8.30am to head for Tooradin, if you'd like to join us,” Sam said.

“This is a rider and community organised event, so anyone is welcome.”

Toys will be distributed by the Phillip Island Baptist Church on Monday and Tuesday after the ride, with disadvantaged children and families from Phillip Island, San Remo, Bass, Corinella, Coronet Bay, Grantville, and Kilcunda regions given the donations.

She said while all toys were accepted, the ride caters for ages 0-17.

“Often teenagers get forgotten about, so gift cards are suitable and appreciated.”

They do not accept toys that are wrapped, with all toys sorted before being distributed to children and families.

Sam said “donations keep rolling in”, including two boogie boards and vouchers to local businesses.

“The true generosity of our community and its spirit has begun to shine,” she said.

“One local came in and said ‘I have some toys in the car for you for the toy run’ and we walked out to the car and her generosity blew us away. She said she'd been putting a little bit aside all year.

“I was genuinely speechless and hugged her. She wanted to be there on the day but couldn't make it.”

Details on Facebook – Annual Phillip Island Toy Run.