The annual Motor Cycle Riders Assn Toy Run to Hobart this Saturday December 5th provides a timely reminder of the power the motorcycle riding fraternity have to do good for others.

Founder of the inaugural ‘Ride for Hope’ Jim Playsted said the ride to the Elwick Showgrounds venue was set for Sunday 21st February 2010 and was expected to attract 1,000 motorcyclists.

Rotary Clubs had been invited to cater for the crowd and a free concert for all participating would follow lunch.  Entry will be $20 per bike and is tax deductible.

Jim Playsted said the choir was doing important work through music, friendship and social inclusion and had recently received a donation from Minister Lisa Singh to help with ongoing finances. A group of business people donate their time to plan and manage choir finances, audit and legal requirements, insurance and public liability.

The Choir of High Hopes Hobart Inc replicates the work done by the Choir of Hard Knocks in Melbourne.  The Hobart choir which meets each Tuesday in a Hobart church hall, celebrated their second birthday during November.

Since founding – the choir has gathered a family of more than 170 people from a tapestry of backgrounds and life experiences, mostly intent upon rebuilding their lives through song and volunteer support.

About 50 members are seen regularly in public performances for community groups in Southern Tasmania.  Their CD ‘A rough Diamond Christmas’ is available with 2010 choir membership for a donation of $25 by contacting .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

The Ride for Hope has been planned to coincide with Summer weather and after the Christmas rush. Calling on all motorcyclists for their support Mr Playsted said he hoped the ride would become an annual event after 2010 as a major fund raising initiative of this kind was required to ensure the choir could continue to help others less fortunate than ourselves.

Jim is available for interview and can be contacted on 0437 222 600.  He will be (i) attending the launch of ‘East Coast Motorcycle Friendly’ at Bicheno 5.30pm Thursday December 3d and (ii) will be handing out ‘Ride for Hope’ flyers with choir members at Hobart’s Salamanca precinct from 3pm Saturday Dec 5th.

Jim Playsted
Choir of High Hopes Hobart Inc
http://www.choirofhighhopes.com