The 2009 solar powered bike team from Damascas College

Yesterday, a dozen students from Damascus College completed a journey across Australia on a solar-powered bicycle.  Arriving in Melbourne on December 9, the Year 9 to Year 12 students traveled a record 3775 kilometers in less than 2 weeks to raise awareness about climate change.

With the Copenhagen climate summit still ongoing, its perfect timing for the RodeRAGE expedition to complete its journey.  The students traded off shifts of approximately one hour each, and traveled at speeds of up to 90 kilometers per hour across the continent.

The expedition has been code-named RodeRAGE, (Ride Against Greenhouse Emissions), and is the second large-scale ride for climate change awareness undertaken by the college.  Here’s some video from last year’s 24-hour ride:

RodeRAGE 2009

The three-wheeled eco bike was developed through the Energy Breakthrough Team at the school.   The RodeRAGE solar powered bike tour is the “vehicle” by which the Damascas College team will raise over $100,000 to aid developing nations suffering the impact of climate change.

Its not too late to donate, even though this year’s ride has been completed!  Please click here, and consider giving $10 or more.  All funds go directly to World Vision and the Alternative Technology Association. Your money will be well-spent:

In Timor, volunteers from the ATA completed the installation of 21 Solar power Systems in Schools, Clinics and Community Centres. A further 10 systems were installed as part of a partnership between the ATA and Suai Youth Centre. ATA Volunteers travelled the length and breadth of Timor, working in 10 of Timor’s 13 Districts. This was a massive commitment by the Australian volunteers….and they want to do more.

Checks or money orders can be sent to:

Rode RAGE Fundraising Account
C/O Damascus College,
200 Victoria St,
Ballarat, VIC, 3350.