Griffith's annual food and toy run got off to a huge success, raising thousands in donations for Meals on Wheels

The run is a mystery cruise, to raise awareness and support for those doing it tough over the Christmas period. It was organised by Rob and Janelle Smith, in an effort to give back to the community and ensure that everyone can enjoy the holidays.

The charitable drive reflects the Smith's own, with Ms Smith saying "We just do it because we love to help out our community."

Bikers and car enthusiasts gathered at the visitor's centre carpark on Saturday morning to collect the donations and prepare for the journey, before taking off to Goolgowi where they were met with a barbecue lunch at the Royal Hotel as a thank you.

Tenille Valensisi, the Senior Coordinator at Meals on Wheels in Griffith, said that it was a huge success.

"It was an amazing day. I think all up, we probably raised about $14,000 through gifts and donations... We're over the moon," she said.

"At the moment, we're just going through the donations of food. They're going out this week in hampers, we'll move all that out ... The money we received, that'll continue the hampers moving forward. After Christmas, we usually see an increase in need because people struggle with expenses," she added.

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Ms Valensisi added that it was especially nice to visit Goolgowi, and added that being able to support smaller communities was an extra benefit to the cruise.

They're not resting on their laurels however, with Ms Valensisi already looking towards next year with Rob and Janelle Smith. Next year will mark the rebrand of the event into 'Convoy for Hope,' but it will remain the same charitable drive as well.

Griffith Meals on Wheels and Hampers of Hope will still be accepting donations at their office at 16 Yambil Street.

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