Walk, jog and run to support dementia cause

AN event will be held at Bendigo Botanic Gardens in May as part of Dementia Australia’s largest annual fundraiser, the Memory Walk and Jog.

The organisation has a $2 million national fundraising goal, is seeking record numbers of participants, and money raised will fund support, education and services for people living with dementia, their families and carers.

The Bendigo event will start at 8am on Saturday 3 May. Individuals and teams can complete a three-kilometre walk, a five-kilometre walk/jog, or a 10-kilometre timed run.

Dementia Australia ambassador Takaya Honda has challenged Bendigo residents to get involved, calling for more people than ever to participate by walking, running, volunteering, donating or supporting others.

“The Victorian community should get involved in Memory Walk and Jog because dementia is a disease that touches so many lives – mine included,” he said.

“My mother passed away from dementia in 2023, and I saw firsthand how devastating and isolating the disease can be, not only for the person living with it but also for their family.

“For those affected, Memory Walk and Jog is more than a fundraiser, it’s a place to connect with others who truly understand the journey.

“For me, it was comforting to share space with people who had walked similar paths, offering a sense of community in what can often feel like an isolating experience.

“When you join us, you’re helping to create hope, connection and change for families like mine. Your support means the world to so many of us.”

Dementia Australia CEO Professor Tanya Buchanan said that communities participating in the Memory Walk and Jog play an integral role in helping to deliver services and increasing awareness of the condition.

“There are more than 2330 people living with dementia in the Greater Bendigo region,” Professor Buchanan said.

“Not only does Memory Walk and Jog help raise vital funds but it is an important opportunity to continue a national discussion about dementia and for everyone to get active and socially connect – two key things we can do to help reduce our risk of dementia.”

Registrations can be submitted at memorywalk.com.au/event/bendigo/home.

If this story has prompted any questions or concerns, call the National Dementia Helpline 1800 100 500 (24 hours a day, seven days a week) or visit dementia.org.au.