The day started with an excellent report from the weather man and it stood true for the entire duration of the 2nd ‘Fred Binns Annual Parkinson’s Foundation Walk’. The walk encompassed the picturesque Rosetta foreshore from Wilkinson’s Point to MONA and return, with shorter walks between.
The early bird walkers started to arrive around 0915hrs and a steady stream followed from then-on. All were registered and some keen participants were chomping at the bit to start walking. Many participants bought their four-legged friends, and kids with bikes, trikes and scooters were aplenty.
It was great to see so many people donning some purple in various ways, from purple hair to t-shirts with ‘Doing it for Poppy’ printed in purple.
We were happy to see bipartisan support for our walk again this year, with The Hon Ms Madeleine Ogilvie MP, The Hon Ms Elise Archer MP), and Mr Andrew Wilkie MP attending.
The Foundation would like to acknowledge the following, who gave so generously of their time on the day;
Flammkuchen, with Markus at the oven, cooking a Menu of German Pizzas, which were very moreish!
Double Shot Coffee – with Glen brewing a decidedly perfect drink to wake some of us up and get on with the morning.
All Round Health – with Ange and David advising on their range of therapies associated with early intervention and Parkinson’s Edge Programs.
Tasmanian Wheelchairs – Rob expounded on his excellent knowledge of daily living products, including a huge range of motorised wheelchairs.
All Care Physio – Jeannie was there to advise on the advantages of exercise, including Pilates and the Parkinson’s Warrior Program
Tai Chi – Vicki took a few people through the beginnings of this most relaxing and less taxing form of exercise.
Face Painting – Clare and Nikki treated a lot of the younger walkers to facial disguises. Even some of the adults couldn’t resist a little bit of artwork!!
Doctor & nurse – Mr Tony Patiniotis & Christine Hansson RN were on hand for any emergencies, fortunately there were none!
Ms Madeleine Ogilvie MP started off the huge number of participants for the longest walk to MONA
and back with its leader, Grady Koolhof.
Hon Ms Elise Archer MP started those doing the 3km walk & The Hon Andrew Wilkie started the 1km walk, with Karen and Peter Bruck leading those walks respectively.
It was great to have both WIN TV and Southern Cross attend. They provided fabulous footage of walkers (and dogs) walking back over one of the colourful bridges.
Most walkers had returned to the Pavilion by 1215, in time for the drawing of the spot prizes. Many of the prizes were donated by our participating partners, for which the Fred Binns Parkinson’s Foundation is extremely grateful.
Di Binns (Wife of Fred) extended a thank you to everyone, including our Partners, for participating and invited all to return next year to do it all again.
The day was announced a resounding success.
Regards from the MC, Laird Glenn of Glencoe. Scotland, UK.
