Camberwell Grammar Lead The Hotly Contested Schools Competition
28 December 2005
Camberwell Grammar are dominating their divisions at the 404 kilometre Red Cross Herald Sun Murray Marathon, leading the Open division and placing consistently throughout the under 16 class.
Entering four relay teams, the boys from the East are soaring past their competition, with several members being involved in the World Championships this year.
Stuart Buckingham, 18, has taken junior glory in his last three Red Cross Murray Marathon attempts, and has paddled a total of five.
After taking an amazing 15th place at the World Championships in Perth this year he looked forward to returning to the Murray Marathon.
'It’s fun. The atmosphere is great - everybody is excited to get on the water. It’s also a good chance to spend time with your mates during the holidays' said Stuart “I’ll definitely return next year to help out, even if I’m not paddling as a student”.
Camberwell parent and self proclaimed ‘team taxi driver’ Mark Potter echoes Stuart’s thoughts, enjoying the time spent in such picturesque surroundings.
'What better way to spend the holiday period? The course goes along some beautiful areas, I can’t think of anything better!' said Mark.
The Red Cross Murray Marathon has a core fundraising aspect, and paddlers are required to contribute via sponsorship or other activities. Camberwell Grammar successfully supported the Australian Red Cross through BBQ’s, wine sales and the Red Cross Murray Marathon Raffle.
In 2005 the event has raised in excess of $320,000 for local community programs and emergency services such as feeding fire fighters in a bush fire and emergency first aid.
According to Peter Moran, Fundraising Manager Australian Red Cross Victoria, The Red Cross Murray Marathon is crucial to the provision of essential domestic services.
'The support of paddlers, volunteers and the some 3,000 land crew is crucial to the success of this event. We are grateful for their support' said Mr. Moran.
The 404 kilometre event spans five days, and finishes in Swan Hill on the 31 December just in time to see in the New Year.
