PHOTOS: Bikers raise funds for Bobbi Bear

MAC’S Familia and Motorcycle Club and event organisers in The Square at the Amanzimtoti CBD helped raise much-needed funds for Operation Bobbi Bear during a recent charity event.

The fundraiser came after the human rights organisation, which works with and assists sexually-abused children, announcement that, without funding, they would be forced to close their doors, not operations.

ALSO READ: Bobbi Bear faces closure without funding

Local, as well as visiting motorcyclists, rallied to participate and support the cause. Funds were raised in about five stages, starting with groups shaking tins at intersections across the larger Amanzimtoti area.

Participants, as well as members of the local community, then descended on The Square where gate fees contributed the second round of income.

Ward 97 councillor and participant, André Beetge said, “Profits derived from the sales of beverages and food contributed the third which then culminated in the fourth which consisted of donations and pledges, some even being matched or bettered by individuals or entities remotely.”

The final phase consisted an auction of donated goods that included various Bobbi bears.

Beetge said, “It was truly a privilege to be participating in such a worthwhile event for an entity that has proven it’s mettle over and over again in the protection of innocent and abused children. If we do not defend the weak, then who will?”

Director of Operation Bobbi Bear, Eureka Olivier said she was humbled as she sat and looked at all the men and women covered in leather, tattooed bodies and proudly displaying patches from rallies that they had attended.

She thanked all the biker families throughout the country who are always busy with some form of charity, and for making her realise that people need to do more.

“We as a community cannot sit back and expect someone else to do it. We have two hands and we can make a difference. Our bikers have and will always have my heart and respect. These men and women are the people who always get involved in supporting the needy and vulnerable. They are the people who vehemently stand against any form of abuse against women, children and the elderly.

They are the ones who have the same love for our communities as what they have for their huge steel machines. No matter what time of the day or night, these bikers will get up and assist, no matter what the problem, they are the ones we know we can count on,” said Olivier.

She also thanked the women of Mac’s, the community for donating, the Amanzimtoti Lions Club for assisting at the gates, Clayton Whitaker, Mug and Dine and all the other businesses in The Square who contributed to the cause.

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