In brief
Bob Montgomery, 82, completed a 3,300‑mile 'One Last Ride' across Australia in June, raising a record A$105,000 for motor neurone disease charity. He and his 18‑year‑old grandson Tom finished in Bowral amid cheers from locals. A day later, Montgomery died unexpectedly, the family described as peaceful. His wife Jenny and the MND community mourn his loss and celebrate his legacy of generosity. The story highlights the power of grassroots charity and the enduring impact of family‑driven philanthropy.
Bob Montgomery, an 82‑year‑old cyclist, completed a 3,300‑mile journey across Australia to raise money for motor neurone disease (MND) on June 24, 2024.
The 22‑day ride, dubbed "One Last Ride," started in Broome, Western Australia, and ended in Bowral, south‑west of Sydney. Montgomery and his 18‑year‑old grandson Tom Malcolm raised about A$105,000 for MND NSW, marking the sixth fundraising challenge he had undertaken.
He and the family celebrated their arrival with roaring applause from the local community. "There are so many stories and people who put their hands into their pockets and donate," he told ABC.
A day after finishing, Bob Montgomery died unexpectedly. His wife of 59 years, Jenny, was by his side during his peaceful passing, and he was still passionately sharing his message hours before death, according to a statement on social media.
MND NSW chief executive Liam O'Meara described him as a "cherished friend and tireless supporter" and expressed deep sadness over the loss. He had been inspired to ride for MND after a cousin suffered from the disease, and previous rides had raised almost A$300,000.
The family gathered in Sydney on Monday to celebrate his life. Unfortunately, shortly after the party, Montgomery suffered a medical episode, leading to his untimely death, confirming the family’s reports of an unexpected but peaceful passing.
