What does a Perth mining services company gain from supporting WA’s largest charity bike ride?
Far more than just brand recognition.
The relationship between one of WA’s leading integrated mining services contractors and one of Perth’s major medical research institutes was cemented when a sub-80-degree freezer broke down, storing unique biological samples critical for medical research.
MACA Limited was approached to assist and with its ‘can do’ attitude it didn’t take long to donate a replacement.
Through this small act, the company was exposed to the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, especially its focus on cancer.
Through its staff, MACA had already seen the devastation cancer causes.
Executive Director, Geoff Baker, understood the best way to make a difference was to support medical research to find cures and better treatments.
In 2012, MACA became a major sponsor for the Ride to Conquer Cancer which benefits the Perkins and three years later took over the title sponsorship.
For many corporates an annual sponsorship of a high-profile community event would be considered ‘duty done’ but for MACA this was only the beginning of their support.
MACA has nurtured a work culture where the business and employees alike take responsibility to give back to the community.
Each year, several causes are chosen and supported by the Executive team.
In addition to sponsoring the Ride, MACA made it a priority to get a team of staff, suppliers, clients and family together to raise even more funds and ride for the cause.
Business connections provided raffle prizes for the Ride.
All stops were pulled out to support the Perkins. And it worked.
Last year Team MACA contributed $1.3 million to the cause.
In six years, MACA has fielded more than 1,500 riders and raised over $7 million for the Perkins.
This helped fund ground-breaking research in melanoma, liver cancer and other hard to treat cancers. MACA understands medical breakthroughs and discoveries can take 5-15 years or more to be developed and that they are investing in future health.
Their success in getting people on board comes from strong corporate partnerships and passion.
It also galvanizes the workforce as they join together for a common cause they can all relate to.
MACA provides substantial support to help its staff participate.
They are a community role model and momentum builder in the Perth and international mining sector.
Over 50 corporate teams now ride and fundraise for the event and many are MACA suppliers or partners. Mining General Manager Tim Gooch takes the message to other companies. His pitch is powerful and frank. ‘MACA supports the Ride and supports medical research. It delivers benefits and you should get on board.’
The company maintains supporting cancer research has made them a better business and improved internal culture.
Staff are more engaged, motivated and healthier. It has changed the way they do business and helped strengthen their corporate and community responsibilities.
The impact has not been lost on the wider resources industry.
The 2018 MACA Ride to Conquer Cancer took place on October 13-14 and more than 800 riders raised an incredible $4.1 million for cancer research at the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research.
