WHO would have thought that spending two days around a bunch of motorbike enthusiasts, would equate to a couple's weekend away?
For Jack and Michelle Emeleus, that's exactly what it is – and the annual Wayne Leonard's Motorcycle Muster is about their only weekend without kids each year.
“My parents fly up from Sydney each year for the weekend and they and the kids wave us off on the bike each time,” Michelle laughs.
The lawyer adds that the last time she was on the back of firefighter husband Jack's Yamaha motorbike was last year's Muster.
“Even Jack doesn't get out on the bike very often – he did help out with the Ironman event and had a great time there, but because he does shift work and we juggle the kids school pickups, we both need cars to get to and from school and work,” Michelle explains.
They have participated for the past eight events, enjoying the chance to meet and get to know people they might not otherwise come into contact with.
“They're a great bunch of people and we both really look forward to seeing everyone each year, plus meeting new people,” she says.
“We think the Foundation is a great local cause and everyone needs the hospital at some point. Just last night we ended up in emergency after our 7yo son fell and fractured his wrist. So it is a real and worthwhile need where we are ultimately helping our own family, friends and community.”
Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation CEO Tony Franz, who also takes part in the event, said fundraising this year was going towards a non-invasive ventilator and laryngoscope for Cairns Hospital's Emergency Department.
“We're certainly on track to raise the funds needed and people like Jack and Michelle do a great job in helping achieve these goals, plus having a great weekend away in our local region,” Mr Franz said.
“This is our 15th year holding the Wayne Leonard's Motorcycle Muster and we cannot wait to head off to Mission Beach on Saturday, June 18, returning Sunday, June 19.
“One couple are driving their RV up from Brisbane with the bikes on the back, to take part, and we have another participant who comes up each year from Townsville, so it's really a great tourism event.”
For more information, visit Motorcycle Muster.
