General News
25 February, 2025
Ashton tackles fundraising ride
Local real estate professional Kate Ashton has embarked on her most challenging Digital Live Ride in Thailand to mark her fifth year supporting Hands Across the Water.
Ms Ashton has just begun her highly anticipated 700 km ride, an increase from her previous 500 km.
On Sunday, February 23 she joined 30 other real estate professionals from Australia, the UK and Sweden to raise vital funds for communities affected by the 2004 tsunami that left thousands of children orphaned and homeless.
“This year, it’s number five, you’ve got to round things up nicely. It’s a really important year for the kids and for the homes at Hands Across the Water,” Ms Ashton said.
Beginning in Bueng Khan, the group will cycle for seven days following the Mekong River.
This year she is also honouring 20 years since Hands Across the Water was founded during the tsunami aftermath.
“There is a group of us continuing and doing another 200 km, as part of that 20 year anniversary, so I just have to be part of it, I’m with the crew now,” she said.
This will take her on an extended route through Khao Lak, a region that was severely impacted by the tsunami.
After years of dedication to Hands Across the Water, Ms Ashton’s connection to the organisation has become deeply personal.
“We can see the kids that have grown up now. Some of them tower over me at six foot something. I’ve seen the babies grow up and they recognise and remember us, so it’s really important,” Ms Ashton said.
To also mark her fifth year, she hopes to raise a new target by the end of the ride.
“Every single cent we raise goes to the kids, so I would really like to raise $15,000 this year. It would be amazing and outstanding,” she said.
She has already reached well over her fundraising target thanks to the generosity of friends, family, real estate clients, and the wider Maryborough community.
“My target was $10,000, I am so grateful for this and acknowledge everyone who has sent in donations through the website,” Ms Ashton said.
The money raised will go towards providing opportunities for nearly 400 children in Thailand.
“Until I finish the ride, please keep donating because we are trying to get a really big target of $15,000,” she said.
Ms Ashton will complete the ride in Yasothon on March 3.
Over five years, she has raised a total of $60,000 for the charity.
After this ride, Ms Ashton will surpass a total of 3000 km cycled in Thailand in support.