Walking for a cause

Alison Gommers, Marilyn King, Sharon Martin and pastor Neil Milton. 150753 Picture: JESSE GRAHAM

By JESSE GRAHAM

RUNNERS and walkers from around the Yarra Valley are being called on to come out for a good cause next month, when the annual HICCI Walkathon returns.

The walkathon, which also features a fun run, will be held on Saturday, 30 April, at the Maroondah Dam in Healesville.

HICCI (Healesville Interchurch Community Care Incorporated) executive officer, Alison Gommers, said the event would see a seven-kilometre fun run or walk from the dam to Donelley’s Weir and back.

For those with prams, or after a shorter circuit, a one-kilometre walk will also be held.

Last year’s event saw the addition of the fun run to the walkathon, with 150 people attending on the day, raising $5000 for the group.

The event is HICCI’s major fund-raiser for the year, and funds programs such as Dinner at Darron’s, a free weekly meal for Healesville residents, held at the Darron Honey Centre.

Alison Gommers, Marilyn King, Sharon Martin and pastor Neil Milton. 150753 Picture: JESSE GRAHAM
Alison Gommers, Marilyn King, Sharon Martin and pastor Neil Milton. 150753 Picture: JESSE GRAHAM

 

The group also provides transport to residents and emergency food for those who need it.

Ms Gommers said there would be prizes for some participants at this year’s event, and encouraged families to come along for the day.

“It’s such a nice venue, and it’s a community event,” she said.

Booking for the walkathon or fun run is $15 before the event, or $20 on the day, with $25 for families – this fee covers a sausage sizzle and water at the event.

For more information, call 5965 3529 or visit www.hicci.org.au.