Sam Longmore – The Big Wheel Push For Purpose

We’re proud to be working with Sam Longmore as she departs on her 441km journey from Corowa to Yass over 8 days in her wheelchair. After a life changing car accident at 22, Sam was left paralysed on the right side of her body, she is undertaking this journey to raise vital funds for rural mental health via Riverina Bluebell and Rural Aid Australia. We sat down with Sam and asked her a few questions before she sets off on her journey.

Can you share your story since your accident and what’s driven you to keep pushing forward?

Twelve years ago, my life changed in an instant after 2 car accidents (first one in my car and the second in the ambulance on the way to the hospital both due to fatigue) on the same stretch of road in 2 different states in 45 mins left me with a spinal cord injury, a brain injury resulting in paralysis down my right hand side, i have no sensation, no movement no nothing from my collar bone to my toes. I went from being an active young woman (20yrs) working in agriculture to learning how to navigate life from a wheelchair.

The reality is there have been some incredibly tough days over the years, but I’ve always believed that while I can’t control what happened to me, I can control what I do next. Since my accident I’ve built businesses, represented Australia on the world stage in disabled water skiing and continue to do so, ive become a speaker and advocate, and tried to show people that a different life doesn’t have to be a lesser life. What keeps me pushing forward is purpose, community and the belief that if my story can help even one person through a difficult time, then sharing it is worth it.

What made you decide to take on the 441km Big Wheel journey from Corowa to Yass?

Mental health has touched my life more times than I wish it had. I’ve lost people I care about and I’ve seen firsthand the impact mental health struggles can have on individuals, families and entire communities. Living and working in rural Australia, I also know how isolated people can feel and how hard it can be to ask for help.

The Big Wheel is my way of starting conversations, raising awareness and hopefully raising a significant amount of money for Rural Aid and Riverina Bluebell. It’s 441 kilometres over eight days in my everyday wheelchair, using one functioning arm, so it’s going to be a challenge. But if it gets people talking about mental health and reaching out to someone who might need support, it’ll be worth every kilometre.

Why did you choose Corowa Distilling Co as the starting point for this challenge?

Corowa is where the journey begins, but Corowa Distilling Co felt like the perfect place to officially roll out from, the team at Corowa distilling Co reached out and I couldn’t pass up a chance to align myself with such an incredible crew of people.

The distillery has become much more than a place that makes great whisky. It’s a place where people gather, share stories, celebrate wins, support each other through hard times and connect with their community. That’s exactly what The Big Wheel is about. Bringing people together for a good cause and reminding people they’re not alone. Plus, if you’re starting a huge challenge in the middle of winter, starting at a whisky distillery just feels right and warm.

What’s your favourite Corowa whisky and why?

This is a dangerous question because it changes depending on the day!

My current favourite though would have to be the Barrel House Peated. It’s smooth, approachable and one that both whisky lovers and people new to whisky can enjoy. That said, I haven’t had any Corowa whiskies I didn’t like.

For people wanting to support or get involved, what’s the best way they can help you on this journey?

The easiest way is to donate via the link below:

If people are along the route, come out and say hello. Seeing familiar faces on the side of the road will make a huge difference when the kilometres start adding up.

Most importantly, use this as a reminder to check in on your mates. A simple conversation can change someone’s day, and sometimes it can change much more than that.

My Top 3 Corowa Whisky Picks

1. Barrel House Peated
2. Corowa Characters
3. Mad Dog Morgan