By Sergeant Dave Morley

THE usual Friday lunchtime routine at Russell Offices was broken up by the roar of more than 20 motorbikes on November 2.

Riders taking part in the annual Snowy Ride arrived from all over Canberra for final instructions prior to departing the following morning.

Paul Brealey, of the Defence Materiel Organisation, said the Snowy Ride was a motorcycle event run annually in the alpine region of NSW.

"The aim is to involve motorcycle riders from all over Australia to raise money for Childhood Cancer Research," he said.

"It is also an opportunity for riders to enjoy a weekend away with their friends and family and to ride some of Australia's best and most picturesque roads."

Paul started the group last year for the Salvation Army's Blanket Appeal. The group now has more than 100 riders, including civilians who are mostly ex-ADF members, who like to get out on their bikes and raise money for charity.

"This weekend's ride was a lead-in for a ride to Cairns in May next year to raise money and awareness for prostate cancer," he said.

"We're hoping for 200 to 300 riders and we'll be stopping in country towns along the way."

Any Defence member or ex-member, military or civilian, wanting to participate in motorbike rides for charity can contact Paul by email at paul.brealey@defence.gov.au.