Now in its fourth year, the charity ride is organised by the Kurri Mongrels in conjunction with the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.

Last year’s event attracted more than 340 riders, and raised $22,000 for the helicopter service (which carries out over 1000 missions a year from its three bases).

Registrations for this year’s rides are going strong, with 170 riders already signed up.

The ride departs Pelaw Main Public School, with various distances on offer, including 20, 40 and 60-kilometre general rides; a 60-kilometre Mines Teams Challenge; a 20-kilometre schools challenge for Year 5 and 6 students, and a 10-kilometre family ride.

Teams of three will compete for the Quarry Mining Trophy in the Mines Teams Challenge (a new addition to this year’s program), with at least eight teams expected to take part.

The schools challenge consists of teams of two, with more than $600 in prizes to be won.

Online entries close Wednesday, April 4, but registrations will be taken on the day.

Check-ins will start from 7.15am at Pelaw Main Public School, with rides departing from 9am through to 10am, and all rides are expected to be finished by 12.30pm.

Kurri Kurri Rotary Club will be cooking bacon and egg rolls for breakfast and a barbecue for the riders on their return.

For more information or to register, visit www.rescuehelicopter.com.au/events.