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In the ever-evolving world of property development and philanthropy, few names are as synonymous with giving back to the community as Max Beck.
A passionate advocate for improving health outcomes in the community, one of Max’s proudest achievements is his management, design and construction of the visionary $1 billion redevelopment of Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital. A world class medical facility including private rooms that deliver the highest standard of care for children, while providing warm, comforting spaces for families navigating the most difficult times in their lives.
Now in his eighties, Max continues to be a tireless advocate for social good, using his platform to support those in need. One of his most impactful contributions is his involvement with The Portsea Camp—an institution cherished by Max and the Beck family for the life-changing experiences it provides to disadvantaged children across Victoria.
A Lifetime of Community Service
Max Beck’s commitment to community service spans more than 30 years, with his passion for philanthropy growing alongside his love for cycling. What began as a small group of friends riding around Dendy Park in Brighton has blossomed into the Bay Riders—a group that has raised over $1 million for children’s charities since its humble beginnings, including The Portsea Camp.
Beck’s connection with the Bay Riders began when a group of mates decided they needed a more sustainable way to stay active. The idea of cycling came about during a casual chat about knee troubles—and before long, Max and his friends were on their bikes. What started with just two riders has grown into a group of 35 members, including the Sorrento chapter founded alongside local business owners Rob Pitt, Mark Clavin, and community identity Lino Tarquinio.
The Bay Riders quickly became a philanthropic force, supporting children’s causes and raising significant funds over the years. Leading by example—one pedal at a time—Max now rides over 200 kilometres a week and dedicates much of his time to family and giving back.
The Bay Riders: A Force for Good
For Max, cycling with friends has always been about more than just fitness—it’s the mental health benefits, the camaraderie, and the shared purpose. The Bay Riders embody the spirit of giving, creating a community of people who support each other while working together to help those less fortunate.
“It’s 50% about the exercise, but the other 50% is about our mateship and mental health,” Max explains. “We come together, support each other, and help those who need it most.”
Stride or Ride for The Portsea Camp: A Lifeline for Children
In March 2020, The Portsea Camp closed its gates for the first time since opening in 1946, as Melbourne entered COVID-19 lockdowns. Like many organisations across the state, the camp was at serious risk of never reopening. But thanks to a Herald Sun article titled Save the Camp, a groundswell of community and philanthropic support breathed new life into the site—and leading the charge (or should we say pedal) was Max and his Bay Riders, determined to see the camp thrive once more.
Combining their two passions—cycling and giving back—the Bay Riders launched their first Portsea Camp cycling challenge in 2022. Members rode 60+ km through the stunning landscapes of the Southern Peninsula, rallying the community to support children facing severe disadvantage.
Three years on, the Bay Riders are still pedalling strong for The Portsea Camp. What began with 35 dedicated cyclists has now grown into a movement, including nearly 100 walkers and runners. In November 2024, they hosted their inaugural Stride or Ride event and have plans to expand it each year.
Just as The Portsea Camp has long been a beacon of hope for children doing it tough, Max Beck and his Bay Riders have taken up the mantle—raising vital funds for the camp’s Make a Difference and Wellness programs, which are more essential than ever in the wake of the pandemic.
The psychological effects of COVID-19 have left many young people feeling disconnected and struggling to relate to others.
Sandra Martin, CEO of The Portsea Camp, Educational and Developmental Psychologist, explains:
“Three years post-COVID, we continue to see ripple effects that have left many children and teenagers feeling disconnected. Events like Stride or Ride are essential in helping us raise the necessary funds to support our programs. With the community’s help, we can continue to provide safe, structured environments where children can rebuild social skills, reconnect, and develop healthy coping strategies.”
The Power of Giving Back
Max Beck’s philosophy is simple: “Life’s about putting back.” Whether it’s through donations, volunteering, or giving time and services, he believes everyone has the capacity to change lives.
Through his ongoing support of The Portsea Camp and leadership in fundraising initiatives like Stride or Ride, Max has shown the incredible impact of philanthropy and the power of community.
His commitment to helping children facing economic and social barriers reflects his belief that even small actions can make a big difference.
“To take ‘cycling with my mates’—something I’m passionate about—and turn it into a way to genuinely change young lives is incredibly rewarding,” he says.
Max Beck’s enduring legacy of community service, together with the unwavering dedication of the Bay Riders, is a powerful reminder of the impact we can all have when we give back. Whether through time, resources, or simply showing up in support, we each have the power to make a difference.
Leading by example, Max Beck continues to prove how one person’s dedication to a cause can inspire many—and create lasting change.
