The journey continues: Sam Longmore named Rural Aid ambassador

SAMANTHA Longmore’s remarkable mission to support rural Australians is entering a new chapter, with the former Junee local appointed as an ambassador for Rural Aid just months after her extraordinary wheelchair journey across southern New South Wales.

The Yass-based small business owner and adaptive athlete has joined the rural charity’s ambassador team, giving her a new platform to continue advocating for mental health and highlighting the challenges facing people living in the bush.

The appointment follows Sam’s unforgettable Big Wheel: Push for a Purpose, which saw her travel more than 400 kilometres from Corowa to Yass in her everyday wheelchair over eight gruelling days in June and July.

Image: Supplied/Red Fox Photography

Passing through more than 20 regional communities along the way, the journey captured widespread attention as Sam battled rain, freezing temperatures, punishing hills and mounting physical pain.

By the time the final donations were counted, she had achieved her ambitious $200,000 fundraising target, allowing $100,000 each to be directed to Rural Aid and Riverina Bluebell.

But Sam always hoped the journey would achieve something beyond the fundraising tally.

“I always wanted The Big Wheel to be about more than the kilometres or money raised,” she said.

Image: Bec Herring

“It was about getting people talking, bringing communities together and shining a light on mental health in rural Australia.

“Becoming a Rural Aid Ambassador means I can keep that conversation going.

“I’ve seen the incredible strength and generosity of rural communities, and I want to keep using my voice to support them.

“The Big Wheel showed me what’s possible when people come together behind a cause, and I’m really excited to continue that journey with Rural Aid.”

A new chapter

Sam joins Rural Aid’s ambassador team alongside Australian rules footballer Alyce Parker and retired rugby league player Corey Jensen.

Rural Aid chief executive John Warlters said Sam’s passion for regional communities, combined with her ability to connect with people, made her a natural fit for the organisation.

“Sam has an incredible ability to bring people together and get people talking,” Mr Warlters said.

“What she achieved through The Big Wheel was remarkable, but it was the purpose behind it that really stood out.

Sam pictured with Rural Aid’s Sharni Minett and Ian Larnach at the finish line in Yass | Image: Supplied

“Sam understands the importance of community and looking out for one another.

“We’re delighted she’ll continue using her platform to raise awareness of mental health and support people in rural and remote Australia.”

Image: Supplied/Red Fox Photography

Rural Aid works with farmers and communities across rural and remote Australia during challenging periods including drought, floods and bushfires, while also investing in community development and mental health and wellbeing initiatives.

Sam’s new role will allow her to build on the momentum created by The Big Wheel and continue advocating for the communities that embraced her during the journey.

Image: Supplied/Martin Lang

More than a finish line

Sam’s appointment also adds another chapter to a story that became much bigger than the kilometres she originally set out to conquer.

Throughout the eight-day journey, communities lined roadsides to cheer her on, schoolchildren followed her progress from classrooms and locals joined her for stretches of the route.

Image: Supplied/Red Fox Photography

Image: Supplied/Red Fox Photography

Sam eventually rolled through the gates of Yass Racecourse on July 4, where hundreds of people were waiting to welcome her across the finish line.

Three days later, the fundraising campaign reached its $200,000 target.

Image: Supplied/Red Fox Photography

Image: Supplied/Red Fox Photography

At the time, Sam spoke about the importance of keeping the conversations sparked by her journey alive.

Now, several months later, the Rural Aid appointment gives her an opportunity to do exactly that.

“The finish line in Yass wasn’t really the end,” Sam said.

“It feels more like the start of something.

“I want to keep the conversation going and remind people in rural communities that when times are tough, they don’t have to go through it alone.”

Image: Supplied/Red Fox Photography

For a journey built around the message that no one should have to tackle life’s toughest hills alone, the appointment ensures Sam’s push for purpose will continue long after the wheels stopped turning in Yass.

To support Rural Aid, visit ruralaid.org.au/donate or call 1300 327 624.