The 2027 Hawaiian Ride for Youth has officially launched! With the first week of training already complete, we marked the start of another Ride year with a special launch event at the Parmelia Hilton, bringing together riders, supporters, sponsors and the Youth Focus team.
This year marks the 25th anniversary of our largest community fundraiser, celebrating a quarter-century of people coming together to raise awareness and funds for youth mental health support across Western Australia.
Over the past 24 years, the Hawaiian Ride for Youth has raised $38 million dollars for Youth Focus and is supported by a community of over 800 Riders and Support Crew who are passionate about advocating for youth mental health.
This year’s Riders have already completed their first training sessions, waking up early (and in the dark) to build their fitness and skills on the bike in preparation for the 700km ride through the Wheatbelt, Southwest and Great Southern in April 2027.
Artwork to mark 25 years
To mark the anniversary, we’ve had a special artwork created which will be featured on this year’s jersey. It celebrates the 25th anniversary and represents the history, community, and future of the Ride.
To mark the anniversary, we’ve had a special artwork created which will be featured on this year’s jersey. It celebrates the 25th anniversary and represents the history, community, and future of the Ride. Designed by local artist Kelli Savietto, each elements represents a theme, place or experiences of the ride, and together they reflect 24 years of community support for youth mental health.
The design is crowned by a solid gold upper section, acknowledging this significant milestone and celebrating 25 years of commitment, generosity and collective impact.
Flowing through the centre of the artwork is the journey from Kinjarling (Albany) to Boorloo (Perth), represented by three pathways that reflect each peloton. The repeated symbols throughout the pathway reflect the unique landscapes encounter along the way, while carrying deeper meaning.
Along the yellow Wheatbelt pathway, Golden Everlastings represent young people finding the courage to reach out. They reflect hope, renewal and the ability to thrive through life’s challenges.
The green Inland pathway features Karri leaves, representing growth, strength and resilience that can develop through support and connection.
Along the blue Coastal pathway, osprey tracks symbolise guidance, perspective and safe passage. They represent the journey forward and reinforce the message that no one needs to travel alone.
Scattered throughout the pathways are yarning circles, representing the schools and communities visited during the ride. These gathering places acknowledge the conversations, connections and shared stories that help break down stigma and promote mental wellbeing.
Anchoring the artwork below are 24 stars and one central star, set against a navy sky. Together, they represent the legacy of the past and the milestone year that brings it all together. Each star honours a year of the Ride’s history, celebrating the enduring impact of a community that continues to ride together, support one another and help create brighter futures for young Western Australians.
Watch Kelli talk through the artwork design or read about the elements included.
Celebrating the Hall of Fame inductees
A special moment at this year’s launch was the recognition of our Hawaiian Ride for Youth Hall of Fame inductees, celebrating riders who have reached the incredible milestone of 10 Rides.
This year, we recognised James Arnott, Shane Cary, Ian Hart, Reg Howard-Smith and Brad Miller for their commitment to the Ride and the impact they’ve made along the way.
For the 25th anniversary, the Hall of Fame has also expanded to recognise the long-standing sponsors who have supported the Ride over a decade or more. Two of our longest-standing partners, Hawaiian, our Naming Rights Partner, and Trench Health & Fitness, have both supported the Ride for an incredible 24 years.
Their ongoing commitment has helped shape the Ride into what it is today, and we’re incredibly grateful to have them and all of our sponsors alongside us as we celebrate this milestone year.
The Ride has only just begun for the year, but there’s a real buzz and the community is excited to celebrate 25 years together. Follow Hawaiian Ride for Youth on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn to stay up to date the Riders and what is happening over the next 6 months in the lead up to Ride Week.
