Walk With Me 2014

Polio Australia’s annual NSW “Walk With Me” fundraiser was held in Parramatta on Friday, 12 September 2014. Once again we were delighted to be invited by Northcott to participate in their Western Sydney event.

We had been keeping a close eye on the weather forecast for days beforehand and, with a 60% chance of rain predicted, were really hoping that it would not rain on our parade. As it turned out, the day was pretty chilly but thankfully dry.

Northcott had gone all out to entertain the big crowd – a reptile show, hoop dancing, face painting, pre-walk workout, bagpipes and drum music, and games for the kids all added to the excitement of the day. Many participants came dressed as their favourite superhero with prizes being awarded to the best dressed team or individual. The Walk’s starting ribbon was cut by special guest of honour, Her Excellency Professor The Honourable Dame Marie Bashir AD CVO, Governor of New South Wales.

The small but enthusiastic “Polio Power NSW” team and friends raised close to $12,000 which will be shared equally between Polio Australia and Polio NSW in the provision of support services to polio survivors and their carers. This was a record result and we give a huge thank you to Northcott, to everyone who donated and, of course, to the Walkers who all worked so hard to raise these vital funds.

All in all, a wonderful day and we look forward to having you join us to do it all again in 2015. It’s not too late to donate to our 2014 campaign, however. Donations can be made until 11 November 2014 by going to the Polio Power NSW fundraising page. All donations (which are tax deductible) are very gratefully received.

Children enjoying the "Walk With Me" Parramatta festivities
Children enjoying the
Northcott spina bifida mascot, Spinosaurus, and Friend
Northcott spina bifida mascot, Spinosaurus, and Friend
Harold the Giraffe
Harold the Giraffe
Spinosaurus and Harold having a "Walk With Me" hug
Spinosaurus and Harold having a
Polio Australia's registration table, with Walk team members Michael and Lisa looking on
Polio Australia's registration table, with Walk team members Michael and Lisa looking on
Polio Australia's President, John Tierney, at the registration table
Polio Australia's President, John Tierney, at the registration table
"Walk With Me" Parramatta Start Line
Eager Walkers waiting for the starting ribbon to be cut
Eager Walkers waiting for the starting ribbon to be cut
Walking down one side of the Parramatta River ...
Walking down one side of the Parramatta River ...
... across the footbridge ...
... across the footbridge ...
... and Walking down the other side of the Parramatta River
... and Walking down the other side of the Parramatta River
Lisa, Michael and Gillian taking a breather
Lisa, Michael and Gillian taking a breather
Andrew, Gillian, John, Pam and Michael
Andrew, Gillian, John, Pam and Michael
"Polio Power NSW" team members with Lara, Andrew and Ellyse from Ability First Australia
"Polio Power NSW" wheeling team mates, George and Gillian
Crush the Crocodile
Crush the Crocodile
Gillian with Crush the Crocodile and Tony from "Reptiles Rule"
Gillian with Crush the Crocodile and Tony from