September 22, 2026
On Thursday the 17th of September, BrainLink ambassador Paul Jamieson completed his longest ride to date 50km from Brunswick to Williamstown and back, raising awareness and funds to support people living with brain injury. The ride, initially planned to go ahead in August during Brain Injury Awareness Week, was postponed due to inclement weather. But this did not deter Paul, determined to achieve his goal with the support of his physio who has helped guide him every step of the way.
For Paul, the ride represented much more than a physical challenge. It was another milestone in a remarkable journey of recovery, determination and building independence after a traumatic brain injury.
Paul had been looking forward to the challenge for months. Originally planned for several weeks earlier, the ride had to be postponed because of rain. When the day finally arrived, Paul was “super pumped” and ready to go.
This was also new territory for Paul. He had never ridden to Williamstown before and was excited about completing the journey, taking a break along the way and enjoying the experience.
The journey offered plenty to see along the way, including riding across the spectacular new green cable stay bridge over Footscrey Road towards Williamstown. When asked whether he thought he would be able to finish, his response captured his attitude perfectly.
"Yep. Easy. Easy peasy. I could do it twice."
Paul raised nearly $5000 to give people living with brain injury a voice. But Paul's thanks weren't just for donors but everyone who has followed his journey, offered encouragement and supported him along the way, reinforcing the importance of the people around him.
"I’m part of a great network of people doing really good things."
Paul's 50km ride is another milestone in his ongoing path after brain injury.
Nine years ago, following his traumatic brain injury, Paul was unable to move, talk, eat or open his eyes. His recovery has been built around small, achievable goals and celebrating every step forward.
When Paul first attempted to ride an automatic training bike, he couldn't complete a single revolution. With persistence and specialised support, that single revolution became a routine, then longer rides — ultimately leading to this 50km achievement.
For Paul, the significance of the ride isn't simply the distance. It's what those 50 kilometres represent: greater independence, determination, confidence and the opportunity to keep setting new goals.
His journey demonstrates that progress after brain injury can take many forms. Sometimes it begins with one small movement. Sometimes it becomes a 50km ride.
Thank you to everyone who donated, watched, encouraged Paul and supported him along the way. Your support helps BrainLink create opportunities for people living with brain injury to build connection, confidence and independence.
“I'm part of a great network of people doing really good things”
Paul Jamieson
Paul has been working with BrainLink for the past 12 months, speaking publicly and sharing his journey to help give more people living with brain injury a voice. Read more about Paul's story below: