Hundreds of motor cycle enthusiasts from the south coast and southern highlands  descended on the North Nowra Tavern yesterday as part of a charity bike ride, raising funds and awareness for mental illness.

An estimated 800 bikers joined the ride, starting from Albion Park, heading down the highway though Berry, and sounding like a slow low flying jet as they rumbled through Cambewarra and North Nowra.

Thousands were raised for mental illness with the ride described as the best yet.

Mark Patterson was one of the riders and says the event seems to get bigger every year