Bikes loaded with toys- Peninsula Toy Run organiser John Smollen is accepting donations for the annual event. 56134 Picture: Stewart Chambers

By Stephanie Kenez
A CONVOY of motorcycles will help underprivileged families to enjoy Christmas for another year.
Now in its 11th year, the Peninsula Toy Run sees hundreds of people load their motorbikes with donations of canned or packaged food and unopened toys to help the underprivileged on the Mornington Peninsula.
The donations will be delivered to Food For All, a non-denominational organisation that assists the needy to access food as well as other items, such as toys at Christmas.
Peninsula Toy Run organiser John Smollen said Food For All were able to make 1500 hampers last year through Toy Run donations and other contributions and they hoped to do the same this year.
“The motorcyclists bring along their own food and toys to donate, and other people are welcome to donate money or goods beforehand as well,” Mr Smollen said.
Mr Smollen said last year 700 motorbike riders took part in the event.
“People come from everywhere, some come from as far away as South Gippsland.”
“All motorcyclists are welcome to come,” he said.
The riders will depart from Frankston Pier on 3 December at 9.30am and will be led by a motorbike policeman on their journey to Rosebud, where the goods will be donated.
Their journey draws a large crowd each year who enjoy seeing the motorcyclists dressed in Christmas-themed costumes on decorated bikes.
“It’s amazing how many people know about it and come to watch; kids particularly like coming and having a look.”
“We have prizes for best dressed rider and best decorated bike; it’s a lot of fun,” Mr Smollen said.
For more information or to donate to the Peninsula Toy Run, contact John Smollen on 5978 6280.