By Afraa Kori
Chris Baker, a member of both Pakenham Motorcycle Riders and the Cardinia Men’s Shed, is hosting the second annual Pakenham Toy Run this weekend.
It aims to support families in need across the Cardinia Shire. After founding the event last year, Chris is once again rallying the local community to bring joy to children this holiday season.
“I’ve always been involved with social justice issues, and I wanted to make a difference at a local level,” Chris said.
“The Cardinia Men’s Shed and Pakenham Motorcycle Riders want to act locally to improve lives, and this Toy Run is a perfect example of that.
“We are collecting any new unwrapped toys, non-perishable foods and cash donations no matter how small, can show that everyday Australians do care and want to help.
“I don’t have huge expectations, I’d rather people surprise me, even better surprise themselves.”
The Toy Run encourages motorcyclists to come together, polish their bikes, and join the ride. Participants are asked to bring new, unwrapped toys or non-perishable foods to be donated to Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal. Donations will directly support local families, with Salvation Army’s staff and volunteers distributing these gifts to families who truly need them.
The event will take place on Saturday, 14 December, with the ride assembling at 8.30am at BP Eastbound on Officer Bypass. The ride begins at 10am, taking participants through Officer, Pakenham, and Gembrook before ending at the Living Learning Centre, where donations will be collected. The event will also feature food stalls, including a barbecue and coffee van, along with prizes for best-dressed rider and best-decorated bike.
Chris hopes to continue growing the event in future years, aiming to make an even bigger impact on the local community.
“If we can make a difference, no matter how small, it will be worth it,” he said.
The Toy Run is supported by the Cardinia Men’s Shed, Cardinia Council, Living Learning Pakenham, Toy World, and Pakenham Motorcycle Riders. Donations can also be made at Toy World Pakenham, where a 15 per cent discount is offered on purchases for the Toy Run.
