BUSINESS leaders are joining forces on 9 November to raise funds for vulnerable children’s mental health and wellbeing through the Sorrento Bay Stride or Ride 2025.
The community event brings together walkers, cyclists, sponsors, and leaders with one goal: to support children facing disadvantages, trauma, and social isolation in Victoria. The funds raised help provide life-changing programs that build resilience, confidence, and connection for these vulnerable kids.
Now in its fourth year, Stride or Ride was started by the Sorrento Bay Riders, a group of passionate cycling enthusiasts. This year, notable participants include property developer and philanthropist Max Beck, TLC Healthcare CEO and managing director Lou Pascuzzi, and Colleen Callander, award-winning CEO and founder of Mentor Me Women. Together, they will use their influence and energy to help raise vital funds for The Portsea Camp’s Make a Difference programs.
At over 80 years of age, Beck has dedicated decades to helping thousands of children experience the benefits of these transformative camps. He said the event was half about exercise and half about mateship and mental health. “To take something I love, cycling with my mates, and turn it into a way to genuinely change young lives is incredibly rewarding,” he said. “Life’s about giving back.”
Pictures: Supplied
Pascuzzi, a decorated cyclist with two World Championship bronze medals, brings his competitive spirit and dedication to the cause. Having trained under world-renowned coach Hilton Clark at the Victorian Institute of Sport, he takes pride in supporting The Portsea Camp.
“The Portsea Camp does incredible work for vulnerable children, a cause that’s close to my heart and central to TLC Healthcare values,” he said. “Stride or Ride is an incredible initiative and a way for the community to come together and directly support the camp’s essential programs.” As a proud sponsor of The Portsea Camp, TLC Healthcare’s involvement is reflected in Pascuzzi’s commitment to improving the wellbeing of future generations.
Joining them is Callander, a two-time best-selling author, who will lead the walk component of Stride or Ride. With a notable 13-year career as a CEO of Sportsgirl and Sussan, Callander now leads Callander & Co and Mentor Me Women, focusing on empowering leaders especially women through her thought leadership on confidence, wellbeing, culture, and purpose.
“Walking is one of my greatest passions,” she said. “I’ve led walking journeys across the world, from Spain’s Camino Trail to the rolling hills of Tuscany and Japan’s Nakasendo Way, I’m passionate about giving back and proud to be leading the walk for children in need.”
To find out more visit the-portsea-camp.grassrootz.com/stride-or-ride-2025
First published in the Southern Peninsula News – October 2025
