Shoalwater local Dennis Baker takes on cycling challenge to support young parents at risk of homelessness

Shoalwater local Dennis Baker is tackling a 600km cycling challenge to raise funds for young parents and their babies experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness. As part of the Big Yellow Pipeline Challenge, Mr Baker will ride as a team with seven of his work colleagues from Nitro Sibir Australia in a five-day adventure along the Golden Pipeline from Kalgoorlie to Perth starting April 29. The challenge is raising funds for Youth Futures’ Nest program, which provides safe accommodation and holistic support for young parents at risk of losing custody of their baby due to homelessness, domestic violence, or other complex challenges. Mr Baker, who heard of the challenge through Nitro Sibir’s sponsorship of the event, said he was inspired to take part after participating in similar charity events. “I’ve been involved in multiple fundraising events over the years; it’s something I really enjoy doing, so I am very happy to be raising funds for the Nest program,” he said. In the past, Mr Baker was actively involved in the Porridge Bikers charity ride, a 1000km ride by prison officers from Albany Regional Prison to raise money for children in need. He has also been involved in the Dirt and Dust Run with his brother Travis, raising funds for mental health support across regional WA. Youth Futures CEO Michelle Jenkins said with WA’s housing crisis worsening, the need for the program had never been greater. “Teen parents and their babies are becoming homeless after being forced from home; they are in immediate crisis,” she said. “Youth Futures stands between teen parents and the street — providing beds, meals and stability when there’s no government funding to fall back on.” Ms Jenkins said the program relied on community support to survive. “Pipeline doesn’t just fund a cycling event. It directly funds beds, meals and life-changing support for young parents and their babies,” she said. Mr Baker said he was excited to take on the challenge and meet other like-minded people along the way. “I’m looking forward to the challenge, spending time with work mates, meeting new people – all the while raising money for a good cause,” he said. “I love getting outdoors and exercising, and the Kalgoorlie pipeline is such an iconic piece of WA history.” To donate, visit pipelinechallenge.com.au.