The Sprockets will once again be entering a team in the 29th annual Murray to Moyne cycle relay, which this year, will be held on the weekend of March 28 and 29.

The group has only just started training, but will be hitting the road two nights each week until the event.

A number of newcomers have decided to join the Stawell Medical Centre Murray to Moyne Sprockets this year. Julie Edwards, Helen Kennedy and Amanda Walker will all be taking part in the 520 kilometre relay from Mildura to Port Fairy, which was organised initially to encourage individual riders or teams to get together to raise much needed funds for hospitals and health services throughout Victoria.

The relay also continues the dream of founder Graham 'Woody' Woodrup of getting more people to realise the fabulous health and social benefits of riding a bike.

Julie and Helen, both employees at Stawell Regional Health, are first time riders, while Amanda, from Halls Gap, has been on the bike quite a bit.

The Sprockets are in need of new jerseys this year and are currently seeking a sponsor for this. The cost for jersey sponsorship is $770, which covers two years of advertising on the jersey.

At present, the Sprockets members still wear jerseys from previous years while training, so the sponsorship represents an excellent investment. There are also other sponsorship levels available.

The Sprockets now have a Facebook page Stawell Sprockets - Murray to Moyne. Residents are welcome to log in and follow the progress of the Sprockets.

As well as sponsorships, there are many ways residents can assist the Sprockets throughout their journey. The group is always looking for people to help out with driving the support vehicles and would welcome hearing from anyone who may be available on the Saturday or Sunday.

The team this year is aiming to raise $10,000 to go towards a new microscope for theatre at the Stawell Hospital. So far, they have managed to raise approximately $3000.

People are able to donate at the hospital, while there is also a raffle to win accommodation in Warrnambool and Melbourne. Tickets are being sold at the hospital and Stawell Medical Centre.