B-SPOKE - Issue 4 - December 2025

Welcome to Issue #4 - December 2025

It’s been a fascinating year. Whether interested in politics, property, sport, law, climate change, war, peace, social media platforms, tax, bitcoin, banks, bikes, books, streaming services or just a nice quiet time at home, there is always something to capture our attention but more often distract us.

The Bondi tragedy will play on all our minds. At a time of year where peace and generosity are foremost, it is even harder to digest these harrowing events. I look to a future of unity and pride, of understanding and respect, as an Australian. Let this stain not ruin that promise. Now as much as ever it is time for reflection and rest.

We are taking our break from the hectic planning for 2026. We will be officially closed from December 22 to January 9.

I want to congratulate our team on the steadfast and dedicated way they have promoted what we have done and what we are doing for our charity partners. They constantly strive for improvements to the way we do things. Thank you, Tim, Leeanne, and Mark. Thanks also to the many who back us up on and off bike - Cindy and Luke deserve special mention.

The changing landscape of cycling is challenging, and the board is aware of how this impacts charity rides like ours. We are developing ways to optimise modes of riding and fundraising in 2026 and beyond. It’s an exciting time for the Foundation.

We welcome Simon Gerrans, Matt O’Keefe, and Daniela Vazille to the board of directors. More about their roles in future communications. We also thank retiring directors Darly Browning and Michelle McNally for their significant contribution. Daryl was a long serving board member and initially the driving force behind the ISPT team in Melbourne and Wintergarden in Brisbane.

When you are having that well-earned break, read on…..

From me, Tim, Leeanne and Mark - we hope you and your families enjoy the festivities that we are privileged to have and that you join in the spirit of generosity, kindness and optimism that marks this time of year.

Michael Byrom,

CEO, Chain Reaction Challenge Foundation

UPCOMING EVENTS

Can’t commit to the full 7-day ride? You can still be part of the Chain Reaction community.

The Virtual 1000 is a brand new challenge where you ride wherever and whenever it suits you. Over 30 days, clock up 1,000 km and raise vital funds to support sick kids and their families. Whether you’re training for the big event, riding with friends, or taking on your own personal challenge - this is your chance to ride with purpose

LEARN MORE HERE

CHARITY PARTNER IMPACT

Proudly Supporting Monash Children’s Hospital

Over the years, Chain Reaction has proudly partnered with Monash

Children’s Hospital to deliver life-saving medical equipment for some of Victoria's tiniest and most vulnerable patients.

In 2025 and continuing in 2026, funds raised will support the purchase of much needed, state-of-the-art ventilator equipment for the Paediatric Inetnsive Care Unit. This technology provides real-time adjustments to oxygen levels, ensuring optimal respiratory support for critically unwell babies and children.

These advanced ventilators respond to the respiratory needs faster and more precisely than manual systems, keeping oxygen levels in the safest range and improving health outcomes. This sophisticated technology will help babies and children recover faster, allowing them to go home sooner, where they belong.

We are proud to have raised over $1.7 Million for Monash Children’s Hospital in the last 5 years, caring for over 100,000 children every year.

“We simply cannot express our gratitude enough to the team at Monash Children’s Hospital. The care, compassion and love they showed Lief and our family during the most horrific time, is immeasurable ” says Melina, mother to Lief.

The ventilator used to support Lief, allowed his brain and body to heal – he simply wouldn’t have recovered without it. The vital ventilators that Chain Reaction are funding provide essential breathing support for the most critically ill children like Lief, ensuring they receive appropriate care when they need it.

Have a story or community update you’d like to share in our monthly updates? We’d love to hear from you! Reach out to Leeanne at [email protected].

YOGA FOR CYCLISTS

Introducing Yoga for Cyclists – A New Wellness Initiative for 2026

To further support our riders through the rigours of Chain Reaction’s 2026 events, we’re excited to introduce a new wellness initiative that will sit alongside our massage therapists and physiotherapy team: Yoga for Cyclists with Trina.

Trina is a Level 2 Accredited Yoga Teacher with over 10 years of experience across community, corporate, physiotherapy and studio settings. She also develops tailored yoga programs for private clients.

Having worked closely with cycling clients - and with her own cycling family (Luke, Katie and Michael) - she’s seen firsthand how yoga can elevate riding performance, mobility and recovery.

Yoga offers a wide range of benefits for cyclists, including:

Improved flexibility and release of tight cycling muscles (quads, hip flexors, shoulders and lower back) after long hours in the saddle
Enhanced core and hip stability to support a strong, efficient riding position
Breathwork techniques to calm the mind, regulate heart rate, manage stress and support more efficient breathing for those long, relentless climbs

For Chain Reaction riders, Trina will offer tailored yoga sessions that can be used daily throughout the event, on and off the bike*.

Yoga is an ancient practice backed by modern science, and its benefits can be adapted to suit every rider - everybody, every ability, every day.

*Inspired by Lexie Williamson’s Yoga for Cyclists.

SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT

Hutchinson Builders: Built to Last

Hutchies’ involvement with Chain Reaction Challenge Foundation isn’t about recognition – it’s about backing things that are important to their people.

The company has supported the AEIOU Foundation for Children with Autism for several years, drawn in by a shared connection and strong alignment with Hutchies’ genuine care for the community, mate ship and doing your bit.

Why Hutchies got involved

We spoke to Hutchies’ Managing Director, Russell Fryer, who says the company’s support for Chain Reaction came about the same way many of its community partnerships do – through its people.

“We back our people – and they back the causes that matter to them,” said Russell.

The Hutchinson family has been connected with AEIOU for many years. When Chain Reaction selected AEIOU as a charity partner, Hutchies didn’t hesitate.

“We saw firsthand the incredible work AEIOU does to support young children with autism and their families,” said Russell.

“They provide specialised early learning and care, tailored early intervention, school readiness and family support that makes a real difference in their lives.”

A challenge to remember

Russell’s first Chain Reaction ride was in New Zealand in 2018 – a 1,000km challenge through the tallest mountains, in freezing rain, after 15 years off the bike.

“I was told more than once by my good mate Michael ‘Lord’ Byrom – now CEO of Chain – ‘Russell, that’s why it’s called a Challenge.’ He wasn’t wrong.”

Despite the conditions, the experience left a lasting impression.

“You start the week as strangers and finish it with lifelong personal and professional mates across the country. That’s the real reward.”

Russell also acknowledged the people behind the event – especially founder Berrick Wilson and the team of professionals who have continued building on it for more than 20 years.

Responsibility the Hutchies Way

Despite being known for their generosity, Hutchies doesn’t have a formal corporate social responsibility policy – and that’s by design.

“We’re builders after all,” says Russell.

“Our approach is simple – if someone is passionate about something, we get behind them. This makes it more meaningful because our people are genuinely invested in the things that are important to them. And that means it’s important to us.”

That mindset has seen Hutchies support everything from local footy clubs to national charities. It’s not about ticking boxes – it’s about doing the right thing.

Seeing the impact

One moment that sticks? Visiting the AEIOU centres and seeing children thrive because of specialised support and technology that Chain Reaction fundraising helped provide.

“We’ve seen firsthand how AEIOU helps kids build confidence, communication and independence. It’s not just about education – it’s about giving families practical support when they need it most.”

“It makes us proud to play a small part in that.”

A bit of (competitive) fun

Chain Reaction rides are known for their camaraderie – and a bit of healthy competition.

“Hutchies’ Team Leader John Berlese, who is also competitive off the bike, still holds the record for highest individual fundraiser I believe,” said Russell.

And while some riders are known for their speed, others are known for their relaxed approach.

“Euan Morton’s usually the last to the start line. Mostly thanks to prolonged breakfasting.”

Music is a big part of the ride, too.

“Early in the day, it’s AC/DC’s ‘Highway to Hell’. By the time we’re rolling into the finish, it’s more like U2’s ‘Beautiful Day’.”

Built to last

Hutchinson Builders are the kind of teammates everyone wants – down to earth, hardworking, keen to help where they can, and always up for a challenge. They’ve helped build – both literally and figuratively – a brighter future for kids who need it most.

And after years of supporting this initiative, those bonds – like their buildings – are built to last.

Established in 1912 with humble beginnings, Hutchies has grown to become Australia’s largest privately owned builder. But their purpose remains the same – to back their people, support their communities, and keep building the next century.

MECHANICAL TIPS

Whether you’re gearing up for long summer rides or just keeping your bike running smoothly week-to-week, a little extra care goes a long way. Here are this month’s tips!

Check Your Spare Kit

Before big training blocks or long rides, open your saddle bag and check what’s inside. Make sure you have:

2 tubes
Tyre levers
CO₂ or a mini pump
Multi-tool

A fresh quick link
Replace old tubes, rusty tools, or used CO₂ cartridges. A well-prepared kit removes stress and keeps you rolling when something happens out on the road.

Lube Choice Matters

The right lubricant depends on the weather and conditions you ride in.

Dry lube for dusty, dry roads
Wet lube for rain and winter riding
Wax for the cleanest, quietest, most efficient drivetrain (great for long events)

Apply sparingly and wipe off the excess. Too much lube attracts dirt, too little causes wear. The right choice keeps your drivetrain running smooth and fast.

Tyre Sealant Top-Up (Tubeless Only)

If you run tubeless tyres, check your sealant level every 3 - 4 months. Low sealant reduces your puncture protection and can lead to slow leaks that won’t seal on the road. Before a big training block or the Chain Reaction event, top up your sealant so the system can do its job. It’s one of the simplest ways to avoid mid-ride puncture stress.

And as we head into the break…
If you need any help with your bike, Luke is available by appointment. He’s operating Velotec Sports - a premium workshop in Richmond dedicated to cyclists who value precision, care and personalised service.

To book in, just give Luke a call on 0422 055 532 to talk through what you need and secure a time.