You’ll often find father of three, Grant Miles, out at the BMX track or training on his own bike to help kids locally and beyond.
Having moved to Hedland eight years ago with his family, Grant became quickly involved with the Hedland BMX track as his kids became interested in riding.
He’s always encouraged his own children to get out and have fun, so he volunteered to ensure other kids in Hedland had that same opportunity.
“What BMX promotes in the town is all about having fun,” he said.
“It’s not necessarily about going out there and winning every time; it’s all about participation, involvement, encouraging the kids to go out there and have fun.”
Grant also took part in the Bright Blue Police Commissioner’s Postie Bike Ride for sick kids, an epic 8-day ride through the infamous and gruelling Gibb River Road. He raised $5,500 for the cause and was inspired by his friends Anthony and Bobbie Jo Ytting, who sadly lost their daughter Montana to Neuroblastoma in 2018.
“You hear the stories of the people involved in the charity and hear what the money means for the organisation,” he said.
“It’s all about raising awareness, spreading the word and getting people to donate funds.
“And it’s the experience as well – when you’re doing the Gibb River at 60 kilometres an hour, you get a bit more time to take it in and enjoy it.”
He said one of the best things about Hedland is that the community rallies around you – whether you’re fundraising, planning an event, or going through a rough time.
“Montana’s favourite flower was sunflowers, and you’ll still see sunflowers planted around town to raise awareness and remember her,” he said.
“We’ve always had a great time with the people in the community and found them really friendly and welcoming.”
It is often the supportive nature of small communities that make them unique, and Grant’s willingness to get out there and raise funds and awareness is an example of the many people lifting each other up in Hedland.
