Almost 50 years of raising money, toys and awareness for families in need has earned Big John Young Newcastle’s greatest acknowledgement after being named a Freeman of the City today.
Since coordinating the first Bikers for Kids Newcastle Toy Run in 1978, Big John has dedicated decades of his life to helping the event grow into one of the region’s most well-known and largest charity drives, with more than 13,000 motorcycle riders turning out in support in 2025.
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New Freeman of the City Big John Young with Cr Declan Clausen.Councillor Declan Clausen presented Big John Young with the honour at a special event at City Hall, surrounded by family, friends and fellow Freemen.
Cr Clausen said Big John’s contribution to charity and community across the region has been remarkable, touching the lives of thousands of people.
“We take it as a given that once a year, our streets are filled by thousands of motorcycles in the name of raising money, but it wouldn’t have ever happened without Big John,” Cr Clausen said.
“His commitment to bringing the community together to ensure disadvantaged children and families have a present under the Christmas tree to unwrap or the extra support they need has been monumental.
“Big John has become an advocate for dozens of charities and organisations across Newcastle and the builder of a vast community fundraising network across motorcycle clubs, businesses, charities, and volunteers.”
Big John’s charity efforts, which earned him a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the 2015 Queen’s Birthday Honours, have also included raising money for organisations such as the Salvation Army, John Hunter Children’s Hospital, Camp Quality, Ronald McDonald House, Westpac Rescue Helicopter, and the NBN 3 Newcastle Telethon.
With a heart as big as his impressive six foot seven stature, Big John said he was honoured and humbled to be named Newcastle’s newest Freeman.
“I’m proud to have been able to use my presence and reputation to bring the community together, raise awareness and funds for charities, and most importantly, support families and children that have needed a little extra help,” Big John said.
“The Newcastle Toy Run is my greatest legacy. We started with about 30 participants in the late 1970s, and last year in 2025 had 13,000 motorcycles with thousands more lining the streets to raise money and awareness for disadvantaged families and children across the region.
“Newcastle and its people have shaped the person that I am today, and this city taught me the value of looking out for one another and believing that acts of kindness can make a big difference in the lives of others.
“Our motto is that every child deserves to smile, and a child’s smile will light the world. I’m proud to have helped make our world a brighter place.”
The Freeman of the City award is Newcastle’s highest honour, conferred upon Novocastrians for outstanding achievement and service to the city or to humanity.
Big John joins an esteemed list of 21 other Novocastrians to be named Freeman of the City, including civic leader Carol Duncan OAM, Surfest co-founder Warren Smith, and scientist and researcher Laureate Professor Roger Smith.