SIX months after riding out of Darwin on a horse ride and cattle drive across Australia to raise money for cancer research, Dan Phegan and Ian James of Akta-Vite Campfires Against Cancer this week crossed the State border into north-west New South Wales.

Mr Phegan of Wirlinga and Mr James from Albury set out on a 4600km journey from Darwin to Corryong with the goal of raising $500,000 for cancer research, with all profits donated directly to The Cancer Council.

Mr Phegan has dedicated the ride to the memory of his late grandfather Herb Freyer who died from cancer, while Mr James is riding to honour his best mate Duane Boswell who lost his battle with bowel cancer at the age of 31.

“We are riding for all Australians who have been touched by cancer,” Mr Phegan said.

Having ridden with 15 horses through the Northern Territory and Queensland, Mr Phegan and Mr James this week began driving 76 cattle to Tamworth where the mob will be auctioned during the Country Music Festival, adding to their $185,000 fundraising total to date.

They accepted their first donation of two beasts in lieu of a cash donation and are encouraging further cattle donations in support of their fundraising cause.

Yesterday they were 30km south of Goondiwindi and are travelling about 10km a day, camping overnight on travelling stock routes. Mr Phegan said while the horses were nursing a few injuries, he and Mr James were fit and well.

“Although I am a bit stiff and sore after riding in the Saddle Bronc at Goondiwindi,” he said.

Media Contact:
Dan Phegan, Akta-Vite Campfires Against Cancer, 0429 995 662.
Megan Dixon, Public Relations Coordinator, The Cancer Council, New South Wales North West Office, 6766 1164.