The following report from VK3FDAA, Phill Simpson, Southwest/Barwon Region Coordinator.
On the first of March this year WICEN was involved in the Dementia Australia Memory Walk held at Nowingi Place in Mildura. WICEN’s task was to set up a communications network for the event, ensuring comms were available at check points along the way, and onboard the sweep Bicycles. A 70cm repeater supplied by WICEN NSW was set up at the main stage and handheld radios were distributed to the officials and checkpoint attendees.
The event saw attendees take part in either a 2km, 5km, or 9km, walk, run or jog, raising $21,300. This money will help provide invaluable support, education and resources for people impacted by dementia in Mildura and across Australia.
An astonishing 344 people from Mildura and beyond turned out for this event.
Dementia Australia is the national peak body and charity for people, of all ages, living with all forms of dementia, their families and carers. It provides advocacy, support services, education and information. An estimated 459,000 people have dementia in Australia, and the number is projected to reach almost 1.1 million by 2058. Dementia Australia is the new voice of Alzheimer’s Australia, with services are supported by the Australian Government.
In all, this event went ahead with no issues. A slight alteration was made to the course due to an unfortunate accident that forced the closure of the car park along the track, but after speaking to the police on scene we were able to establish an alternative route. This incident was not event related.
Phil was a bit short on members since the event was held in Mildura so to assist him through the day his eager 6-year-old son, Grant was more than happy to get up at 4am in the morning to come and help out dad for the day. So, a big thanks to Grant who loved walking around with a handheld on his hip alongside his Dad.
Thanks, Phill for the report and good to see the event ran well and your son enjoyed a day out with Dad. A possible future ham in the works.
