Some do it alone.  Some do it with others.  Some are young, some are old.  Some even build their own boats.

But they all have one thing in common – a passion for paddling, having fun and helping the Red Cross.

Australian Red Cross Victoria is calling for participants and volunteers for one of the longest accredited canoe races in the world.

The Red Cross Murray Marathon, now in its 38th year, will take place on the mighty Murray River from December 27 – 31.

Past years have seen more than 800 participants, up to 400 volunteers and 3000 support crew from throughout Australia and the world converge on the banks of the Murray for the annual 404 km river adventure.

People can take on the Murray on their own or have some fun in a relay team.  It’s open to anyone aged 13 and over, with fundraising a condition of entry.  Red Cross is also looking for volunteers to help stage the event.

Twenty-six-year-old Erin Lynch, of East Ringwood in Melbourne, has competed in the Red Cross Murray Marathon since 1996.  She embodies the community spirit of the event, over the years coaching teams of younger paddlers, starting a canoe club from scratch and creating a new class of event, the K4 Challenge, to eliminate barriers to entry for those who have never paddled before.

The 2002 Red Cross Murray Marathon was also where Erin met her partner, Mark.

'It’s the atmosphere, friendships and camaraderie that keep me coming back,” she said.  “I push myself hard when I’m up there, but it’s the best week of my life, and in such a beautiful landscape.'

Sixty-two-year-old Bill Robinson, who is entering the race for the 17th time, paddled solo 2000km up the Murray River early last year, the realisation of a lifetime dream.

He introduced his daughter, Jane Robinson, to the event in 1992, and she went on to become a world champion Quad Sculler.

'It’s one of the great sporting events in Australia where it is possible for people who are not super athletes to achieve their goals, while assisting Australian Red Cross,' he said.

'My advice to anyone thinking of competing – just do it!'

Australian Red Cross Executive Director Andrew Hilton said:  'People of all ages and abilities can get out on this magnificent river and participate in this fun and rewarding event.

Funds raised will help Red Cross deliver services to vulnerable people in Victoria, whether it be serving a nutritious breakfast to children who may otherwise go hungry, or reuniting families who have been separated by war or disaster.'

The annual river adventure began in 1969, when Red Cross volunteer Mark Thornthwaite and some friends paddled the river to raise funds.  They raised $250.  Last year’s event generated revenue of more than $350,000.

The closing date for entries is Friday 1 December.  Go to www.redcross.org.au or phone 1800 246 850.

Australian Red Cross Victoria also is looking for volunteers to help at the event.