- AFL star Tom Hawkins joined Tour d'Horse 2026 to support his wife Emma, who is riding through Hunter Valley for the KIDS Foundation
- Tom visited Muswellbrook Cats to connect with young players and families while supporting the community
- Country music artist James Johnston performed at the evening campfire event alongside broadcaster Hamish McLachlan and 7-year-old Winter, who has SMA
- Young survivor Awheata Exford joined Johnston for an emotional campfire performance
- The tour continues raising funds and awareness for children and families affected by trauma and injury
Tour d’Horse 2026 delivered another memorable chapter, with AFL premiership star Tom Hawkins joining the tour in support of wife Emma Hawkins, who is riding this year’s journey through the Hunter Valley in support of the KIDS Foundation.
While supporting Emma KIDS Foundation Ambassador throughout the day, Tom also spent time giving back to the local community with a special visit to the Muswellbrook Cats, connecting with young players and families and sharing encouragement, stories and plenty of laughs.
As riders returned to base camp following another inspiring day in the saddle, the evening unfolded with heartfelt moments around the campfire.
Australian country music artist James Johnston performed for riders, supporters and volunteers, creating a special atmosphere alongside broadcaster Hamish McLachlan and Winter 7yrs old who has SMA(Spinal Muscular Atrophy), as they thanked everyone involved in helping make Tour d’Horse possible.
One of the evening’s most moving moments came as young survivor Awheata Exford joined James Johnston around the campfire for an emotional performance, reflecting the courage, healing and connection that sit at the heart of the tour.
Tour d’Horse 2026 continues to raise vital funds and awareness for children, individuals and families impacted by trauma and injury, while bringing communities together through shared stories, hope and support.
Link to VNR Google Drive: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RO6O3SSmbYf6sHXoMtDbafCHEfJZk10V/view?usp=drive_link
SHOT LIST:
• Tom Hawkins Muswellbrook Cats Clinic
• Tom Hawkins Grabs
• Drones
- Ride Overlay
- Evening Event
- James Johnston Grab
- Ride
- Tom Hawkings cake serving
- Evening event
- Matt Thiele grab
- Bryan Carlson / Emirates Park Grab
- Henry Field /Newgate Grab
- Phoebe White /Woolooma Grab
Media Kit https://kfkidsfoundation.blob.core.windows.net/assets/nova/2026-TDH-Media-Kit.pdf
Contact details:
Media Contact
Melanie Mullen 0418 331 994
KIDS Foundation: PR & Content Lead
[email protected]
