By Garry Howe
Former Richmond champion and AFL media commentator Matthew Richardson has signed up to walk the Kokoda Track in a quest to help stamp out family violence.
And he’s looking for people to join him on the 11-day bucket list challenge which is aimed at raising money and awareness for south-east based child and family service provider Windermere.
Richo, as he is affectionately known, has been a Windermere ambassador since his playing days and jumped at the chance to head up the Kokoda challenge.
He is confident that former team-mates Nathan Brown and Wayne Campbell will join him and a few other former Tigers have also expressed an interest.
The Trek to End Violence will take place from 22 October to 1 November next year.
Windermere chief executive officer Dr Lynette Buoy said the organisation was thrilled to have its ambassador and “all round nice guy” Matthew Richardson head up the trek.
“It won’t be easy but neither are the hardships that face the majority of people we see at Windermere every day,” Dr Buoy said.
“Our Kokoda trek to end family violence gives people the chance to do something good for themselves, and for others.
“I think it’s the right thing to do – to make a difference to the community.”
“At Windermere, it is our mission to build a stronger, connected and more supported community, creating positive change to the lives of those who need it most, and we’d love for you to help us.”
Participants have to cover their travel costs – amounting to $5000 – and undertake to raise $3000 for Windermere to help in its battle against family violence, particularly in the south-east. There is also a $770 registration fee.
The trek takes eight days and the trip duration is 11 days.
The Kokoda Track was the scene of bitter fighting in 1942 as Australian soldiers fought to defend Port Moresby from the advancing Japanese troops.
Today, walking the track has become a pilgrimage for many Australians and the battlefield is a lot closer to home – in our neighbourhoods, our streets and in the homes of people we know and love.
The trek will help Windermere in its fight against family violence.
Along the way, trekkers will honour not only the World War II soldiers who fought on Kokoda, but the many brave people who continue to advocate against family violence and speak out against fear or retribution and alienation from their families, their friends or the community.
Sadly, family violence touches one in every two people across the south-east.
Alarmingly, half of the people Windermere works with every day are experiencing issues relating from family violence.
Those who want to show that they are up to the challenge and join Richo on the Kokoda Trek to end family violence can register by phoning 1300 946 337, emailing events@windermere.org.au or visiting www.windermere.org.au.
