Crossing the Nullarbor Plain
Damien Kelly, aged 67, has reached a significant milestone in his 4,000km solo charity ride from Perth to Geelong. This journey honours Callum and Jake Robinson and marks a challenging phase as he begins the Nullarbor Plain crossing.
Having departed Perth on 16 March 2026, Kelly has already spent 18 days on the road, covering between 1,400 and 1,600 kilometers. He is undertaking this ride unsupported, carrying all necessary equipment himself and relying on his own planning and resilience.
This ride is a tribute to Callum and Jake Robinson, two Australian brothers tragically killed in Mexico in 2024 alongside their friend Carter Rhoad. The Callum and Jake Robinson Foundation, established in their memory, aims to help others ‘Live Bigger, Shine Brighter and Love Harder.’
Crossing into South Australia at Border Village is both symbolic and logistical, as it signifies the start of the Nullarbor Plain, renowned for its vast, treeless landscapes and extended stretches of uninterrupted road. These conditions test both physical endurance and mental resilience.
Kelly noted, ‘The crosswinds have been one of the toughest parts so far,’ as he battles strong and persistent side winds across Western Australia. These conditions have significantly shaped his daily progress, requiring constant adjustments and increasing fatigue.
The Nullarbor demands careful management of supplies and energy. With minimal shelter and services, it is a defining phase of Kelly’s broader journey from Perth to Geelong.
Following the Nullarbor, Kelly will continue his journey through South Australia and Victoria, aiming to reach Geelong. Supporters can follow his progress in real-time through online updates, as he strives to raise awareness and support for the Robinson Foundation.
Meanwhile, the journey stands as a testament to the human spirit and the power of perseverance. As Kelly continues, he remains focused on the mission to commemorate the lives of the Robinson brothers and promote the foundation’s causes. The ride not only challenges Kelly physically but also serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for others to live life to the fullest.
Last updated: 4 April 2026, 7:46 pm
