For the past 10 years the Vietnam Veterans Motorcycle Club (VVMC) has gathered more than 200 bike loving mates to try their luck over a course of 200 kilometers, hosting team events at each stopover.

This year the men hope to top last year’s fundraising and reach their goal of $80,000.

President Ron “Dimples” Sheargold said the men undertook the ride out of a love for raising money for the two hospitals.

“The hard work carried out by the members will see us able to purchase a Blanket Warmer for the Emergency Department at The Canberra Hospital and contribute to a valuable project at the Cooma Hospital,” he said.

“Everything we do is geared to raising funds for these two institutions, which is a labour of love rather than a chore.”

The Vietnam Vets Motorcycle Club means more than raising money. It is a Club which allows shared experiences to be acknowledged.

“The Club does help - we can talk about our experiences if we need too - people understand the problems and are down to earth in their approach,” Vice president Mick Wilson said.

“I can be myself and do some work for charity. I get a buzz from helping people.”

Traditionally a male experience, the VVMC has turned the poker run charity event into a family day, bringing along partners and children to share the experiences of being on the road.

The Rolling Bike Show and Poker Run will be held on October 29 with riders to meet at the Bredbo Community Hall for an early bird breakfast from 7am.

Full details of the VVMC poker run on 29 October 2011 and the charities it supports can be found at www.vvmcfederal.com.au