JASPAR WILSON-KEIR | APRIL 30, 2026
Originally from Queensland, John grew up in Brisbane’s Southeast. With AFL football not the same juggernaut it is today prior to the Lions entry in the league, the only connection he had to the game of footy was dropping his son Nic at Auskick. Now, with daughter Shelby playing at the Sharks in QAFLW program, there is an added sense of sentiment to his support.
What started as a bold idea quickly became an extraordinary feat of endurance, commitment and passion. Riding from the Gold Coast all the way to Melbourne, John Harrison set out on a journey that tested both body and mind all to be there for the Southport Sharks’ VFL Round 1 clash.
With 2300km ahead of him and the aim of getting it done in 3 weeks, there were a lot of variable factors that lay on the road ahead.
“We don’t know what the weather’s going to be like. If we get floods, or a bushfire, it will force me to change routes and heavily impact the ride.”
Despite the possible roadblocks, John’s determination didn’t waver and rather, he took a very fitting approach in his attitude.
“I’m going to take it just like a football game, minute by minute.” He said.
Through long days in the saddle, unpredictable conditions and countless kilometres, John’s ride captured the spirit of what it means to truly show up for your club.
“I’m looking forward to a lot of it. Small towns, talking to locals and having a laugh, getting a chicken parmi somewhere, that sort of stuff.”
Most importantly, his final goal was clear.
“At the end of it, I’m looking forward to seeing the Sharks play.”
Fast-forward to April 21 where the Sharks Round 1 fixture was set to take place in an early morning start against Richmond in Frankston. As the dark clouds descended around Kinetic Stadium, they didn’t dim the light John saw riding into the ground.
“Reaching Melbourne felt like arriving at the end of a chapter tired, grateful, and proud. This journey asked a lot, but it gave more in return clarity, connection, and a reminder of how good it feels to move with purpose.”
More than just a remarkable physical achievement, his journey reflects a deep connection to the Sharks community, one that extends through his support of the program.
John Harrison with his bike at Kinetic Stadium, Frankston.
