General News
8 September, 2025
Jacob King's ride of a lifetime for Starlight Children's Foundation
Let me know if we need more photos, there are plenty on Facebook.
Queenslander Jacob King is putting his body and mind to the ultimate challenge as he takes on the 4 Points Challenge across the country on his bicycle.
Seventy one days into the challenge, Jacob started in Broome, Western Australia, and has reached three out of four points of mainland Australia.
The 27-year-old passed through Horsham on Wednesday, September 3, on day 65 as his team rode from Bordertown to Stawell.
"It's an epic adventure," he said.
"Many highs and lows, I've met some great people and seen beautiful country."
He is supported by his dad, Lee, who has accompanied him on the journey.
Mr King said he discovered a passion for pushing his limits and setting challenges after competing in Ironman races.
"I knew I was capable of more," he said.
He followed well-known cyclists and noticed that many were completing the lap around Australia, so he thought it was his turn to give it a go.
"If they can do it, why can't I do it?" Mr King said.
"It's a way to grow mentally, physically and spiritually."
The ride has not come without its challenges.
On September 5, the team left Bacchus Marsh, travelling through the Melbourne CBD to reach their next stop, Foster.
"It took eight hours to get from the west to the east of Melbourne CBD," he said.
Encountering a wide range of weather along the way, Jacob reached Wilson Promontory, the most southern point, on Saturday, September 6, where he was met with a challenge in itself: no bikes allowed on the trail.
They dismantled the "trusty steed" and hit the track, not prepared for the 30km return hike.
A trek like this doesn't come without its consequences.
On day 12, Jacob said he was admitted with bad tendonitis and on day 50 in Wagin, he contracted food poisoning, which saw another trip to the hospital.
Despite this, Jacob said he thinks his body is now adapting to the conditions and temporary lifestyle he has adopted.
A challenge like this isn't without a cause, and for Jacob, that's the Starlight Foundation, setting a goal of raising $100,000 to contribute towards the cause.
"I've been supporting them for a few years," he said.
"Sick kids are the most deserving.
"I'm in a privileged position where I can go out and do these challenges, but the challenges sick kids face are outside of their control.
"Hopefully, I can use my challenge to support their challenges."
Looking ahead, Jacob said, "We're all on track to finish in under 90 days because that's how much annual leave I had".
To keep up to date with Jacob's journey, visit the 4 Points Challenge on Facebook.
To donate to the Starlight Foundation, visit https://starlightfundraisers.org.au/4-points-challenge.
