Mr O’Connell and a group of riders recently finished an 800 kilometre ride to support a mate who had been recently diagnosed with cancer. 

“It was pretty emotional just to see the community spirit and to see everyone come out and support Bernie and his family,” he said.

“To come home to that reception was nothing short of amazing.” 

He had already planned on riding from Adelaide to Coleambally for a good cause, but when Bernie Star was diagnosed with brain cancer, he decided to readjust. 

Mr Connell was joined on the trip by friends Tom Groves and Mitch Carroll, as well as a number of Mr Star’s friends and family. 

“To form a bond like we did, there’s no words that can describe it. To make new mates and lifelong friends was really special,”’ he said.

He also paid tribute their support crew both at home and on the ride, including Mr Star himself. 

“For Bernie to be able to give up his time to be with us was incredible,” he said. 

“He’d always wake up with a smile, he’s second to none and a top bloke. Seeing him every day was enough to keep us going.” 

Saturday afternoon saw the crew ride into Coleambally, joined from Waddi Service station by around 30 riders. When they reached Coleambally Lions Park, they were met by kids who followed the group into the oval. 

“We just took it all in as we rode into the oval. There was a lot of deep breaths and a few tears,” Mr O’Connell said.

Mr Star said he wasn’t as tired as the cyclists in the aftermath, but was happy to have joined them for the long trek. 

“The way everyone got along was great. It was a bit like a team bonding session. It was impressive. Hay and the final run-in were the two of the highlights,” he said. 

He says the team received a great welcome in Hay. 

“It is an amazing community. They really went out of their way,” Mr Star said. 

A dedicated support crew behind the scenes worked hard to make the ride what it was. 

“I owe a lot of this to my sister Catherine. Without her, I wouldn’t know how to do it. She really pulled so much of it together,” he said. 

“Sarah Hardy is another one we have to give a special mention. She did so much for us.” 

Even with the grand finale, Mr O’Connell still recalls some tough spots along the way. He says leg of the journey from Mildura to Euston really the group. 

“That 80 kilometres was a real battle. We stopped for lunch and all just fell on the ground,” he said. 

With the cause in mind, he says there was no way they were turning back. 

“Without the guys that were with us, I’m not sure we would’ve made it. As long as the pedals were turning, we knew we were making round.”

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Mr O’Connell said the ongoing support from their friend s, family, community members and local businesses was amazing.

”We would look at our phones and see endless messages of support. Each and every day everyone got on board and gave us their well-wishes.”

Mr Star said he’s continually amazed at Coleambally’s community spirit. He says it feels like no one is left behind. 

“I’m just amazed that such a little town can keep doing this. Whenever someone hits a rough patch, people help them out and hold them up,” he said. 

Even days after the ride, the donations are still coming in. Mr O’Connell says it’s all still a little surreal. 

“One guy with a little dream and it just grew into something incredible for an incredible bloke,” he said. 

“I won’t forget it. Ever.”