For a Newcastle woman, the open road has become a path of healing, memory, and profound purpose. Each year, Jo Gomboso buckles her helmet and embarks on an epic cycling journey exceeding 1000 kilometres, a powerful tribute to her late husband and a determined fight against the disease that took him.
A Promise Pedalled Into Purpose
Jo and her husband, Steven Gomboso, were passionate cyclists. When Steven received a lung cancer diagnosis in 2018, the couple made a plan. Inspired by the medical research that had extended his quality of life, they decided to join the charity Tour de Cure's signature ride together in 2022. Tragically, Steven's health declined, and he passed away in August 2021, before they could undertake the challenge.
Faced with grief as the 2022 ride approached, Jo confronted a difficult choice. "It was a very difficult time," she recalled, but she resolved to attempt "something that I never in my wildest dreams thought I could achieve." Surrounded by her sisters, children, and friends as riders and support crew, she completed the nine-day trek from Geelong to Canberra.
"I cried every day," Jo admitted. "I was sad but also happy and proud of what I was doing, knowing that Steven would be just so proud of me." She found strength in the ride leader's mantra: "we ride for each other, but we also ride for those that can't ride for themselves."
Building a Legacy on Two Wheels
What began as a solitary promise has blossomed into a family mission and a remarkable fundraising legacy. Since the Gomboso family became involved with Tour de Cure, they have raised more than $200,000 for cancer research. In 2026, Jo is aiming to contribute a further $16,000 to the cause, having already secured $5000 towards that goal.
Her motivation remains steadfast. "The main reason I keep participating each year is that I believe cancer can be cured through research - we just need to put funds in it to make it happen," Jo stated. She emphasises that while not everyone can work in a lab, supporting those who do is crucial. "We can make sure that the clever people who can do this are given resources to continue their work."
The Journey Continues: From Canberra to Hobart
This March marks Jo Gomboso's fifth year with the Tour de Cure Signature Tour. The 2026 route will travel from Canberra to Hobart. Following a hip replacement several months ago, Jo will participate as a vital member of the support crew, ensuring other riders can succeed.
The family tradition continues strongly, with two of her children joining the effort. Her son, James Parker, will be cycling, while her daughter, Ellen Parker, will also serve on the support crew. This enduring involvement underscores the close-knit community the event fosters, a community Jo cherishes deeply.
She rides not only for Steven, whose dignified battle never included complaint, but for all touched by cancer. Tour de Cure has funded over 1228 projects since 2007, resulting in 231 research breakthroughs. For Jo Gomboso, every kilometre covered and every dollar raised is a step closer to a world where other families are spared the loss she endures.
