Member snapshot – Jason Wadley from ANZ

Pushing yourself to the brink of endurance doesn’t sound like a fun way to spend three days, but for ANZ Regional Executive Jason Wadley, the cause is worth the effort.

For the past three years, Jason has taken part in the Royal Far West ‘Ride for Country Kids’, which raises funds to provide vital health services to country children.

It was during a meeting at Royal Far West headquarters in Manly that Jason and a group of fellow ANZ executives first decided to form Team ANZ.

“We wanted to do something at a statewide level, and help build awareness of the great work Royal Far West does for the people of country NSW,” Jason said.

Commencing on March 12, this year’s ride spanned more than 400kms from Wagga Wagga to Orange.

Jason is a regular weekly rider but backing up three days in a row in trying conditions would test anyone’s willpower.

“On the first day, we travelled 155kms in 38 degrees and horrific winds. The second day was 18 degrees, wet and windy so by the end of the day we were freezing cold.

“It was tough to get through but your fellow riders make all the difference. When we get on the ride, it’s like we’ve known each other for years and years.”

Jason said the best part of the ride was meeting the families supported by Royal Far West and hearing their stories.

“We met a family out near Canowindra that need specialist medical support that they can’t afford. Royal Far West provides the support they need and you can see exactly where the dollars are going.

“It’s a fantastic event run by an organisation that does an amazing job. They hope to raise $600,000 from this year’s ride, which will directly support families in country NSW. It’s a good feeling to be a small part of that.”

If you’d like to support Team ANZ, it’s not too late to make a donation.