Geelong rallies for people affected by dementia

MEMBERS of the Geelong community turned out at Eastern Beach Reserve last weekend for the annual Memory Walk & Jog.

More than 950 people participated in the May 4 event, walking, running and jogging to raise a total of $109,000.

Dementia Australia chief executive officer Professor Tanya Buchanan extended her gratitude to participants.

“There was an outstanding show of support from the Geelong community who turned out in such large numbers for the first time in support of people affected by dementia.

“It was great to see the community supporting Dementia Australia by raising funds and awareness of dementia as well as moving for their brain health, which research shows can help reduce our risk of dementia.”

Participants had the choice of completing the 2km walk, 6.5km walk and jog or the 8.5km Timed Run, all leaving from the Eastern Park Reserve.

The Geelong event was one of 28 held across the country, with each walk and jog bringing together people impacted by dementia and their supporters.

More than 107,600 people are living with dementia in Victoria, funds raised from the Memory Walk & Jog will assist Dementia Australia in delivering services and research.

Professor Buchanan also acknowledged all the volunteers and their hard work in the success of the event.

“It is only through the hard work of our wonderful volunteers that the success of this event is possible,” she said.

People who were unable to attend the event still have an opportunity to be involved by creating their own group or individual walk or jog with a MyWay event, by registering at memorywalk.com.au/get-involved/mw

If this story has prompted any questions or concerns, reach out to the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500, or head to dementia.org.au