MEMORIES of the Tolmie bushfires of December, 2006, are still vivid for residents of Victoria's North East.
People haven't forgotten the sights and fears of that time and the feeling of gratitude to the district's firefighters lives on.
It was that desire to give something back that prompted the inaugural Fire it Up road ride for motorcyclists, which attracted about 100 riders to Benalla last November.
As soon as the event was over, participants were booking in for the next one.
Earlier this month, the second Fire it Up ride took place, drawing 150 riders from as far afield as Geelong and Wagga Wagga.
They rumbled through Benalla with a full lights-and-sirens escort from the Benalla fire brigade.
Event organiser Natasha Treacy, from Benalla Chainsaw and Mower Centre, said the ride was planned to raise funds for both the CFA and SES.
"The charity ride was a way to give back to the emergency services who look after our communities," Natasha said.
"We work in with the Tolmie and Benalla CFA and Euroa and Benalla SES.
"We cover their costs and they get to promote their services."
This year, participants cruised through Violet Town and the Strathbogie Ranges to Euroa for a morning tea provided by the local SES.
From there, it was on through Merton and Mansfield to Tolmie for a barbecue organised by Tolmie CFA at the local sports oval.
"It's a good time out for the brigade," said Tolmie captain John Valcich.
"We get part of the entry fee, so that's all going towards a new computer system and internet connection for the brigade."
The group then rode through Moyhu, Wangaratta and the Warby Ranges before heading back through Benalla.
Benalla captain Bill Polwarth said the numbers had a grown a lot after the first year.
The money donated to the Benalla brigade will help buy its new forward command vehicle.
- For more details on next year's ride, phone Natasha on (03) 5762 6177.
