Originally established in 2015 to help foster a sense of community and friendships over a shared interest in motorcycles, this remains the driving force behind the Sikh Motorcycle Club today – but with an added motivation to raise awareness and funds for The Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH).
A charitable mindset has always been inherent to the Sikh community and culture. According to Simran, one of the club’s key members, this community work is called ‘Seva,’ which directly translates to selfless or voluntary service.
“We are encouraged to give and help anyone in need. And so far, we’ve been doing blood drives, men’s mental health awareness program and some community work here and there. But we never played a role in fundraising for RCH,” Simran said.
“Fortunately, Param, our founder, called and asked me what we could do for the RCH Foundation because it would be a good outcome for both. It would be good exposure for the hospital and our community,” he continued.
By supporting charitable causes, the club has not only raised vital funds but also addressed important issues within the Sikh community. Choosing to fundraise for the RCH has enabled the Sikh Motorcycle Club to raise awareness about the state’s leading pediatric hospital so the community knows what support exists even before they need it.
“Most of us in the group are very new to the country, so we need to understand that there are facilities available – and the best way to do this is by getting involved. This can show our members first-hand not only what they can access, but what the community can do in return,” said Simran.
“A large number of our community have very young families, so getting the information out there is always helpful. Also, once we move the group into community work, our members will begin to obtain the exposure to these important causes and integrate better,” Simran further highlighted.
This year, through their inaugural Vaisakhi Ride, the Sikh Motorcycle Club Australia raised an incredible $10,000 for the RCH Foundation’s flagship fundraiser ‘Fly for the Kids’ – a bold fundraising initiative aimed at establishing advanced therapies at the RCH for children battling rare and complex conditions.
“Any effort that can help humankind should be taken with great importance, especially when it comes to helping children with life-threatening illnesses. So, if we do have such technology that can help these lives, we would definitely support that,” Simran shared.
While the club’s goal has always been to share their culture, making a positive impact and giving back to the community is also at the heart of their club ethos. Both Simran and Param feel incredibly proud that the Sikh Motorcycle Club was able to contribute to Fly for the Kids – and it has inspired them to go further for sick kids.
Param and Simran’s dedication has helped forge meaningful connections between the RCH Foundation and the generous Sikh community. Excitingly, the renowned Australia Sikh Games 2026 – a major national event that attracts athletes and spectators from across the globe – will also support Fly for the Kids next year. This new partnership support was made possible thanks to a referral from the Sikh Motorcycle Club Australia, further demonstrating the power of community in driving meaningful change.
Overall, Param and Simran urge everyone to support the vital work of the RCH – and hope that their involvement inspires further impact.
“Don’t hesitate to get onboard and support the RCH Foundation. It’s a great cause and you should not delay getting in touch with them,” Simran concluded.