Fundraising goal more than doubled at Narrabri Inner Wheel’s charity walkathon

Sunny conditions made for the perfect occasion for the Narrabri Inner Wheel’s charity walkathon last Sunday.

Sean’s Two for Ten, the two-kilometre track participants walked for a $10 donation, was held on Sunday morning along the river.

The event collected vital funds for cord blood research, which aims to help those who’ve suffered from leukaemia, strokes, heart disease and other autoimmune diseases.

The initial goal was to raise $1000, but this almost tripled was thanks to incredible community support.

More than $2800 was collected in total, to be donated to Inner Wheel Australia.

From there, the money will go towards scholarships aimed at doctors and scientists working in the cord blood space.

Locals showed up in droves, and in just a few hours the donations surpassed anything the Inner Wheel team had expected.

“It was our first time hosting an event like this, so we were a little nervous, but with thanks to experienced locals like Helen Dugdale, it was smooth sailing on the day,” Narrabri Inner Wheel treasurer Pat Norrie said.

“We want to thank everyone who participated, we’re so happy with this result – with your help the event was more successful than we could’ve ever hoped for,” vice-president Tricia Hadley said.

“In fact, we even had some people who didn’t want to do the walk, but still showed up just to donate to the cause.”

Stephanie Hook, Marion Pike and Tracey Fing. Stephanie Hook, Marion Pike and Tracey Fing.

Tracey Rex signing up for the walkathon with Helen Dugdale and Marie Keys. Tracey Rex signing up for the walkathon with Helen Dugdale and Marie Keys.

Nanette and Murray Watson with George, 4, and Bear the dog. Nanette and Murray Watson with George, 4, and Bear the dog.

Grahame Herbert and Len Hall. Grahame Herbert and Len Hall.

Annita and Billy Devine with Sue Kennedy. Annita and Billy Devine with Sue Kennedy.

Joan and Don Griffiths. Joan and Don Griffiths.

Darcy Murphy, Walter Read, Lucy, Matilda and Anna Murphy. Darcy Murphy, Walter Read, Lucy, Matilda and Anna Murphy.

Barbara Murphy and Tricia Hadley. Barbara Murphy and Tricia Hadley.

Joan Burrell-Melbourne and Pat Norrie. Joan Burrell-Melbourne and Pat Norrie.

Gail and Kaylyn Chater with dog Mac. Gail and Kaylyn Chater with dog Mac.

Kath Hamilton and Marie Keys. Kath Hamilton and Marie Keys.

Due to the event’s popularity, locals are already asking if Inner Wheel will host a similar fundraiser in the future.

“It’s clear people want to see something like this happen again,” Mrs Hadley said.

“So, we’re thinking we’ll run a biennial walkathon, with a different fundraiser on every other year – maybe a high tea.”

The Narrabri Rotary Club were also in attendance, running a barbecue breakfast on the day.

“Rotary actually donated both their time and the food they cooked,” Mrs Norrie explained.

“We asked for a gold coin donation from those who were interested in the barbecue breakfast, and almost $200 came from that alone, so we’re very thankful for Rotary’s help.”

A cake stall, plant sale and white elephant stand were also set up and run alongside the walkathon, with unpurchased goods donated to the local Salvation Army after the event.

“It really was a fun morning for everyone, with all sorts of people getting involved,” Mrs Norrie said.

“And it’s always amazing to have so much support from the local community.”