Just one day after completing a remarkable 5,200km charity bike ride across Australia, beloved motor neurone disease (MND) advocate Bob Montgomery has died aged 82.

The Bowral grandfather passed away on Monday night after suffering a medical episode while travelling home from a celebration marking the end of his six-week fundraising journey.

Montgomery had spent the previous six weeks cycling from Broome to Bowral alongside his 18-year-old grandson, Tom Malcolm, in what was fittingly named One Last Ride. The pair battled relentless headwinds, freezing mornings, remote highways and thousands of kilometres of unforgiving road to raise money and awareness for MND NSW.

His family confirmed his death in a statement, thanking supporters for the outpouring of love they had received.

“Just the day before, Bob and his grandson completed their extraordinary fundraising cycle across Australia,” the statement said.

“Fittingly, and now poignantly, the ride was named One Last Ride. At 82 years of age, Bob was still passionately sharing his message only hours before his passing.”

His wife of 59 years, Jenny, was by his side when he died peacefully.

MND NSW chief executive Liam O’Meara said the organisation was devastated by the loss of one of its greatest supporters. “For many years, Bob dedicated himself to raising vital funds and awareness for people living with motor neurone disease,” O’Meara told ABC News.

“His most recent achievement, riding from Broome to Bowral at the age of 82 alongside his 18-year-old grandson, was nothing short of inspirational.”

He said Montgomery never sought recognition for his efforts. “Bob understood that behind every diagnosis is a person and a family navigating one of life’s most challenging journeys.

“His fundraising helped ensure that more people could access the care, equipment and support they need, when they need it most.”

Speaking to the news.com.au after Montgomery’s death, O’Meara said the timing made the loss even more heartbreaking.

“It was a lovely afternoon… Bob was just elated,” he said of Monday’s celebration. “I received a text last night at 9 o’clock to say he has passed away, which was shocking.”

Reflecting on Montgomery’s extraordinary contribution over many years, O’Meara added: “He didn’t have to do any of this. He chose to do it. And I think that’s just the mark of the man.”

Montgomery’s commitment to the cause stretched back more than a decade, after his cousin Judith died from MND in 2014. Determined to make a difference, he turned his passion for cycling into fundraising, completing six interstate charity rides — five specifically for MND — and raising more than $300,000 before setting off on his final journey. His latest ride has already raised more than $100,000, with donations continuing to climb.

His first major charity ride began at the age of 70, when he cycled from the Three Sisters at Katoomba to Port Douglas. A lifelong sportsman who had run sporting centres with his wife, Jenny, Montgomery refused to let age slow him down.

“This is a charity I hold close to my heart,” he said before beginning One Last Ride. “I continue to ride on behalf of people who no longer can.”

MND NSW described Montgomery as a “cherished friend and tireless supporter” and is now considering a permanent memorial ride and a posthumous honour to recognise his years of service.

“He absolutely deserves it and we want to honour his memory,” O’Meara said.

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