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Murray Champion Joined By Son
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November 2004
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In December 1969, ten school friends came together in seven canoes to battle 250 miles of the mighty Murray River in order to raise $250 for Australian Red Cross. 35 years later, the technology of the event may have changed; yet the values of camaraderie, friendship and supporting a worthy organisation still remain.
Local Omeo resident Tony Kewish is proud to have entered the first Red Cross Murray Marathon in the 'Summer of ‘69'. According to Tony, paddlers in the first event dealt with torrential rain, cold nights and more than enough mosquitos. But it was the sense of team work that carried them through the tough six days.
'My ground crew spent more time rescuing other stranded crews with my ex-army four wheel drive than attending to me! It was okay though, because the other crews were always there to help us if we needed it too' said Tony.
In his 22nd Red Cross Herald Sun Murray Marathon Tony will be lucky enough to have a special type of teamwork. Tony’s son will return from spending three years in South America just in time for the event. They will be paddling in a double kayak, working together in the 404km race.
According to Andrew Hilton, Executive Director, Australian Red Cross, Victoria, the Marathon assists individuals on many levels.
'The Marathon offers all types of people the chance to participate in a challenging, team orientated sporting experience. It also provides a way for people to contribute to the Red Cross.' said Mr. Hilton.
This year it is hoped the Marathon will raise $200,000 for the Australian Red Cross. Each individual is challenged to meet a specific fundraising target, and funds raised go towards supporting local Red Cross activities, such as disaster and emergency services and first aid training.
'The funds raised from this event are crucial to providing services for the local community' said John Powell, Group Manager of Fundraising, Australian Red Cross, Victoria 'The Red Cross would not be able to provide essential services such in the Gippsland community without this help.'
In 2004 Tony is fundraising with the help of corporate sponsors and the Murray Marathon Raffle where the prize is a car.
In 2004, the Herald Sun Red Cross Murray Marathon upholds the culture of camaraderie. This time though 700 paddlers and 3,000 officials, land crew, media and supporters are expected to share the 404km challenge. Moving as a tent city from town to town, the event begins on December 27 in Yarrawonga, finishing in Swan Hill on New Years Eve.
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Media contacts:
Lisa Fitzgerald
Marketing & Communications Assistant
Australian Red Cross
Telephone 03 8327 7755
Mobile 0400 696 432
viccomms@redcross.org.au
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