Dozens to embark on 600km ride in support of homeless young parents in Big Yellow Pipeline Challenge

Dozens of cyclists will set off from Kalgoorlie-Boulder this week for a five-day, 600km ride in support of young parents and their babies at risk of homelessness.

This year’s Big Yellow Pipeline Challenge, which follows the Kep Track along the Goldfields pipeline into the Perth Hills, has seen 80 riders sign up for either the five-day ride, or a 65km ride from Bakers Hill.

Those participating in the five-day ride will leave Kalgoorlie-Boulder on Wednesday, with every kilometre ridden helping raise critical funds for the Youth Futures Nest Program, which supports young parents and their babies experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness.

Local participant Alexandra Figueredo is among a team of 12 from Nitro Sibir taking part in this year’s ride, having enjoyed her first ride last year.

“Last year when we crossed the finish line, we got to meet some of the mums and all the people involved in the program and hear about what they do with all the funds raised,” she said.

“It was amazing. It is really worth it.”

Youth Futures chief executive Michelle Jenkins said every dollar raised from the event went straight to the Nest program.

“This program receives zero government funding, yet it is vital in supporting young parents and their babies with safe accommodation, food, and tailored support,” she said.

“For many of the young families we work with, the Nest program is life-changing.

“Events like (this) ensure we can continue to provide a safe place to stay and help them build a better future.”

Since launching in 2015, the event has raised more than $1.5 million.

Last year, Nest supported 97 young parents and children, but 56 young parents seeking outreach support and 163 young parents seeking accommodation could not be supported because of capacity constraints.