for a new bike Michael was able to see the positive aspect in the experience . “ Dr Peggy Brown ( one of the three appointed Royal Commissioners ) wanted to meet with me and hear of my experience and of that which I am doing .”
Just one of the many chance meetings that Michael has discovered along his route . Meetings , while collecting donations for Soldier On , have left him feeling that perhaps there is a movement to make people aware of what is happening and that something more must be done , and is being done .
“ The stories from ordinary people have been touching , they ’ ve inspired me to continue through the hardships and continue the quest .”
The hardships Michael has been confronted with are reminiscent of those that have made ‘ the lap ’ or for those that have ventured into the Outback before him . The destroyed engine in Queensland was the beginning , corrugations high enough to destroy any bike confronted the little bike on the Savanah Way in the Gulf country of Queensland and the Northern Territory , bad fuel in Western Australia , and severe dehydration in the remote areas of the country . All challenges that have driven Michael on to reach his goal .
“ I want to do the hard yards for those that have already done the hard yards ,” suggested Michael as he continued to explain that sacrificing his own comfort for others is nothing new .
Eight years ago , Michael rode a pushbike around Australia , in a similar route to that of the Postie bike , to raise funds for children battling cancer . A ride that completed 14,000 kilometres and raised $ 51,000 for the Kids With Cancer Foundation ( see our review of Journey Of Charity in the book reviews that details this extraordinary ride ). And the Where ’ s Wally outfit ? As Michael puts it , “ it ’ s a way of generating a conversation ”.
“ People will often yell out , ‘ I found you Wally , I found you ’,” Michael laughed as he explained that this then led to an explanation of the unusual clothing and the struggles of mental illness . Then of course the donations are received .
“ People around the country have been very generous , some have paid for fuel , others have donated hotel rooms , most have provided inspiration ,” Michael went on . “ It reinforces ones faith in humanity .”
Yet , it ’ s a battle far from won and with that Wally will continue to ride on …
Keep an eye open on the roads and if you see a little bike and a rider with a big heart dressed a little strange , stop , have a chat , and help Michael ’ s cause . He can also be found at jmichaeldavey . com . au or donations made at www . apostieride4ptsd . com . au , and if you ’ re a member of the military , past or present , who seeks help with mental health try Soldier On , they can help steer you in a direction that could be beneficial . TRAVERSE
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