Whether you’re clocking up kilometres on your commute, enjoying a weekend ride with the kids, or hitting a spin class, every ride counts — because every kilometre helps deliver happiness to seriously ill children and their families.
Now in its 24th year, Tour de Kids aims to raise $750,000 to support more than 19,000 sick kids through Starlight’s vital hospital programs, including Captain Starlight and the magical Starlight Express Rooms.
A ride that’s personal — and powerful
Seven-year-old Harper was a happy, outdoorsy child who loved riding her bike. So, when she suddenly found herself in pain and unable to walk, it came as a huge shock to her family. After multiple tests, an MRI revealed osteomyelitis — a serious bone infection in her hip. Just days later, Harper was also diagnosed with sepsis, a life-threatening blood infection.
While Harper received urgent treatment in hospital, her family discovered the Starlight Express Room at Monash Children’s Hospital — and the relief it brought was immediate.
“Starlight let Harper just be a kid again,” says mum, Katrina.
“Being in hospital can feel like your whole world has stopped. Starlight brings back some ‘normal life’ during those really stressful times.”
It’s stories like Harper’s that inspire thousands of Australians to ride and raise funds each year. And this October, you can too.
What to expect
Riders will be rewarded for their fundraising efforts with exclusive Tour de Kids merchandise, including a Santini cycling jersey, sports socks, sweatband, VIP t-shirt, cooling towel, collapsible cup, and a champion’s medal. Plus, the highest individual fundraiser will win an Ultimate Cycling Pack (RRP $1,404), and the top fundraising team will receive a $3,000 voucher, both courtesy of BikeChain.
Since its launch in 2001 as Australia’s first-ever charity bike ride, Tour de Kids has raised more than $11.5 million, helping more than 294,000 children and their families.
Tour de Kids runs from 1–31 October 2025 and is open to riders of all ages and abilities.To sign up, visit tourdekids.org.au or follow @starlighttourdekids on Instagram.
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