Why motorbikes are vital in Cambodia

In the places where ChildFund Cambodia works, services are severely limited, meaning any breakdown could result in a long journey on foot to the closest town.

Sopheak knows this work requires a reliable mode of transport. Cars are too big. Bicycles are too slow. Motorcycles are often the only thing connecting people in remote communities with the supplies they need.

They are light enough to be carried on an ox-drawn cart across a flooded road, but powerful enough to transport even the heaviest supplies.

ChildFund Cambodia community workers use motorcycles to transport everything from books and educational equipment, to enormous concrete drainpipes that can be used to install toilets in communities and reduce the spread of diseases.

Health workers use motorcycles to visit people in remote communities and deliver vaccinations, medications and education materials.

“Motorcycles are absolutely vital to deliver essential items and services to some of the poorest children, families and villages in the country,” ChildFund Australia CEO Nigel Spence said.

This year ChildFund Australia has launched the Post a Postie campaign to increase awareness of the importance of postie bikes in remote communities, while also encouraging Australians to support this effort by donating the cost of a motorcycle, a helmet or even a motor mechanic apprenticeship for Cambodia or Papua New Guinea.