The couple that cycles together, stays together. Right? That's the case for Peter Blackshaw Real Estate managing principals Andrew and Belinda Chamberlain, who will celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary next year by cycling 500km across Thailand to raise money for disadvantaged children.
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Of course the Canberra couple share many interests, not least their four children and business, but their shared love of cycling has also held them in good stead over the last two decades.
"Andrew got into it first and then he introduced me to it after the four children as something for fitness and getting out and doing something for myself and I loved it," Belinda said.
The couple met when she, straight out of school, went to do work experience at the Peter Blackshaw office in Manuka and "never left".
"We actually met next to the photocopier," Belinda said with a laugh.
The couple have four children - 18-year-old twins Chelsea and Jessica; Mia, 15; and Oscar, 14, who is a highly competitive rider himself.
The Chamberlains wanted to do something meaningful for their 20th wedding anniversary next March so will take part in the in Digital Live Ride, a 500km bike ride across Thailand to raise funds for Hands Across the Water, a charity dedicated to enriching the lives of 350 disadvantaged children.
"We've had an amazing life and I think it's good for our children to see us giving back," she said.
Belinda and Andrew will start the 500km ride across rural Thailand in Bueng Khan, following the Mekong River before heading west into villages and rural communities.
"This ride is about providing the children of Thailand the choices and opportunities our amazing four children have been afforded during our 20 years as a family," Andrew said.
"But, most importantly, it's about coming together as one with other leaders from the real estate industry to give back and make a difference in the lives of those that are less fortunate. And if we make a difference in our own lives at the same time, we couldn't think of a better gift for our anniversary."
The Chamberlains have set themselves a goal to raise $10,000 for Digital Live Ride. Belinda said 100 per cent of donations would go straight to the children and their communities.
"Access to new and exciting opportunities for the children is just as important as a loving home and a belly full of healthy food," she said.
"These donations will help provide a high standard of care, a chance at a better education and a future that these children would never have been able to envisage."
To support Andrew and Belinda go to their fundraising page at www.handsacrossthewater.org.au/fundraisers/20-years-over-500km-
Megan Doherty
I like telling local stories and celebrating Canberra. Email: megan.doherty@canberratimes.com.au
I like telling local stories and celebrating Canberra. Email: megan.doherty@canberratimes.com.au
