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our friends in the future .
It ’ s the Australian stories though , that are told at the AWM each afternoon at 4:45pm during the last post ceremonies where one name is read from the wall bringing their story to life . This is the experience I wanted to bring to the riders of the Frontline Safari group for 2023 . To see a gathering of dirt bike riders , most without any connection to the military , come together and listen to those that have served and paid the ultimate sacrifice was humbling , especially when several Veterans in the group came forward to also share their experiences at end of a days riding . To hear the stories each night of those that died , and the next day ’ s ride dedicated to a soldier was poignant and suddenly the cramps in the legs or the seat rash didn ’ t seem so much of an issue .
I encourage those on future rides to consider doing a reading or sharing their story especially if they have served and thankyou to all those veterans and riders who became involved in the tributes this year . Not only does this ride help raise money for Soldier On it also allows a platform for people to ask veterans questions and hear their experiences which can be cathartic for those that have served . This ride was also a perfect opportunity for my teenage son and I to spend some great time together , away from it all , which we will both remember forever . I ’ m already looking forward to the 2024 edition of the Frontline Safari , for 2023 was an unexpected , thoroughly enjoyable , experience . And to put it into dirt bike terms , it was one hell of a ride . RH
PIC : John Hunter Farrell ( Australian Defender Magazine )
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