A powerful new community fundraiser will see Yass-based small business owner, disability advocate and elite adaptive athlete Samantha Longmore undertake an extraordinary 400km wheelchair push through regional New South Wales this June, raising funds and awareness for rural mental health. “The Big Wheel: Push for a Purpose” will begin on Saturday 27 June at the Corowa Distilling Co and finish eight days later on Saturday 4 July in Yass, with Longmore pushing her everyday wheelchair approximately 50km per day through more than 20 regional communities. The initiative aims to raise $200,000, with funds split evenly between Rural Aid and Riverina Bluebell, supporting critical mental health services and community resilience programs in rural Australia. Ms Longmore, who sustained a spinal cord injury in two car accidents more than a decade ago and has used a wheelchair ever since, remains deeply connected to agriculture and rural life. As a small business owner and advocate, she is using this challenge to spark conversation around the growing pressures faced by rural communities. “I know it’s a big, slightly wild idea, but sometimes it takes something different to get people to stop, pay attention, and start talking,” Ms Longmore said. “In agriculture especially, we’re seeing pressures build from seasonal conditions, financial stress and isolation. If doing something outlandish helps shine a light on mental health in rural communities and brings people together, then I’m all for it.” The route will pass through Corowa, Howlong, Albury, Culcairn, Henty, The Rock, Wagga Wagga, Junee, Cootamundra, Harden and Binalong before finishing in Yass, where a community celebration will be held at the Yass Racecourse. Ms Longmore said the challenge is about more than distance – it’s about connection. “At the end of the day, I just want to do my bit to start conversations, encourage people to check in on each other, and remind people that they’re not alone, even when it can feel like they are.” Rural Aid CEO John Warlters praised Ms Longmore’s commitment to supporting rural communities through such a demanding challenge. “Ms Longmore’s willingness to take on a challenge of this scale to support others speaks volumes about her character and her connection to rural Australia,” Mr Warlters said. “What she’s doing will not only raise vital funds but also shine a light on the very real mental health challenges facing people in regional and remote communities.” “Rural Aid is proud to stand alongside Ms Longmore and support this incredible effort, which will help ensure more people know that support is available and that they’re not alone.” As a grassroots, community-led endurance event, The Big Wheel is expected to draw strong local support along the route, with opportunities for communities to get involved, donate, and walk or roll alongside Ms Longmore. Event Details: Event: The Big Wheel – Push for a Purpose Dates: 27 June – 4 July 2026 Distance: 400km over 8 days Route: Corowa to Yass via regional NSW communities Fundraising Target: $200,000 Donation Link: https://www.mycause.com.au/page/393886/the-big-wheel Beneficiaries: Rural Aid and Riverina Bluebell Finish Event: Yass Racecourse community celebration Rural Aid
