The Long, Good Walk
In an attempt to raise a massive $1,000,000 for the Cancer Council, Michael Mitchell, a veteran bushwalker and secondary school teacher, is currently attempting a historic hike from Cape York in Queensland to Wilsons Promontory in Victoria.
The groundbreaking 6022km-long bushwalk began on 5 May this year and Michael plans to reach the Prom on 27 June 2009. The Great Australian Cancer Bushwalk – as the titanic trek is being called – will traverse the full length of Australia’s land mass, from the country’s northern tip to the southernmost point of the mainland. Michael will stride through three states in the process of completing the walk.
“Too many people close to me have been touched by cancer,” says Michael on the website. “I do not have the skills of the surgeon or the intellect of the research scientist. [But] after further thought I concluded I could carry a pack and bushwalk all day. If I did this long and far enough, it may inspire others with the means, to kick in some funds creating enough of a total figure to make a difference to many, many others.”
As we go to press Michael is in Laura, Queensland. He’s ahead of schedule and has survived the first bout of blisters successfully. Great Australian Cancer Bushwalk HQ keep track of him thanks to Codans sponsored HF Radio systems and the SPOT GPS Emergency Tracker. To monitor Michael’s progress and read his diary, check out thegreatcancerwalk.com.au. If you can, that’s also the place to make a donation to this worthy cause or to get involved with the effort.
Bushwalkers are encouraged to gather their own sponsors and join Michael for a leg or two of his marathon hike. The Great Australian Cancer Bushwalk has been separated into 58 defined sections, and Michael is looking for company on all of them. Support crew are also needed to set up camp each night and to drive the Toyota 4WD and new camper trailer between sites.
Interested? Contact Lisa Burnett by ringing 03-9534 4437 or 0425 710 558. To find out more, or to discover how to make a donation, check out the website thegreatcancerwalk.com.au or email info@thegreatcancerwalk.com.au.