20/02/2009

Harley Davidson's Set to Make A Noise About the Silent Killer To Support
Tasmanian Hospital Renal Units and Kidney Patients

Over two hundred finely tuned Harley Davidson's are set to Make a Noise About The Silent Killer - Chronic Kidney Disease, which is responsible for over 40 deaths a day in Australia.

Chronic Kidney Disease is known as the Silent Killer as nearly half the people with an advanced form of kidney disease do not know they have weak or failing kidneys. People can lose up to 90% of the use of their kidneys and not even know it.

A cavalcade of gleaming motor bikes including the famous Harley Davidson machines will be part of the fourth annual Kidney Fundraising Bike Ride on Saturday 28 February 2009.

Organised by Tasmanian Chapter of the Harley Owners Group together with Shannons Insurance, the ride has attracted riders and supporters from all over Tasmania.

Riders will gather at Valentines Park Campbelltown from 11.00 am for a 12.00 noon departure riding to Richardson Harley Davidson, Westbury Road, Prospect for a BBQ, live music and auction. An auction of donated goods will be held and trophies awarded for best Harley - British - European - Jap & Rat Bike.

All funds raised will be distributed to Tasmanian hospital renal units in Burnie, Launceston and Hobart for the purchase of items and equipment to improve patient comfort while undergoing lengthy dialysis sessions.

Funds will also be directed to Kidney Health Australia, for production of public information about early detection and treatment of kidney disease.

Assistant Director Harley Owners Group Tasmania Peter Mainsbridge says the event is great fun for everyone who owns a bike and gets better every year.

"Good company and entertainment is the order of the day and knowing the $10 entry fee and money spent will be going to a worthwhile cause, makes it more special. Last year's event saw over 200 bikers take part with approximately $8000 raised. This year we are aiming to top that."

Organisers Brian McRae and Lawrence Hoar are happy to field any enquires about the event and are keen to hear from Southern businesses who can help out by donating goods for the auction or who wish to make a cash donation to the cause. Brian and Lawrence can be contacted on Mobile: 0488 559 975 or Mobile: 0408 099 657.

Kidney disease is on the rise and the only treatment available when kidney's fail, is dialysis or a kidney transplant. Kidney Health Australia says renal units around the state are under pressure to cope with the increasing numbers of people needing dialysis treatment and support. Currently there are close to 200 Tasmanians on dialysis.

Kidney Health Australia urges everyone over 50 to see their doctor and ask for a kidney health check.

For more information about kidney disease contact Kidney Health Australia on 1800 682 531.

Local Media Enquiries:
Carolyn Mackintosh - Kidney Health Australia - TAS (03) 6231 9663 or Mobile: 0400 036106
Ron Smith National Media Communications Kidney Health Australia Mobile: 0417 329 201