By SONJA KOREMANS
PERFECT weather but lots of blisters.
That’s how a group of Stanthorpe residents walking 16,000km around Australia to raise money for cancer awarensess have described the first week of their mammoth adventure.
After two years of planning and fund-raising, five walkers and support crew left Stanthorpe on the weekend on the Southern Downs Walk for Life Around Australia.They will spend the next 14 months on the walk.
Prostate cancer patient Ian Robbins and his wife Christine are leading the group on a 14-month trip to raise money for the fight against prostate and breast cancer.
Southern Free Times spoke with the couple who, along with the dedicated walkers, were resting at the Toowoomba Show Grounds yesterday.
Mr Robins said the walkers and support crew were settling into their journey .
“We have had warm weather and no rain so far, but there are certainly a few blisters,” Mr Robins said.
“The first week has been about establishing a routine for the journey ahead.”
The group is setting off for Nanango later in the week and then Childers, Mr Robins said.
“As I am still receiving treatment I am the driver, however Christine and the other walkers are travelling about 45 kilometres a day collectively.
“Our route will take us to Cairns, across to Darwin and the west coast and then back to Queensland.”
As the Walk for Life team enter towns, the group are hosting events to highlight prostate and breast cancer awareness, he said.
Backed by Australian entrepreneur Dick Smith, the Robins feel their messages of hope and health promotion will reach more people if they fund-raise through a major event that can’t be ignored.
