By Mitchell Clarke
Lockdown might have brought normal fundraising activities to a halt, but the dedicated Inner Wheel ladies weren’t prepared to stop their charitable efforts.
In a bid to bust the lockdown boredom – and continue serving their community – the Narre Warren Inner Wheel came up with an idea to take part in a lockdown walkathon.
Finishing up their challenge last week, a dedicated group of members have officially walked from Melbourne to Perth and onto Fremantle – crossing two state borders – as they racked up a total of 3802 kilometres over the 11 week walkathon.
With the support of family, friends and members who couldn’t walk, the ladies also raised an impressive $5000 for the club’s charity account.
The walkathon idea was penned by Inner Wheel member Linda Wallace, who like many, was in need of some stimulation during the strict lockdown.
And the challenge proved the perfect way to keep fit and raise some much needed funds.
Inner Wheel Club of Narre Warren correspondent Linda Kamerling said the lockdown challenge brought with it “many benefits”.
“This has been a great little adventure with so many benefits, such as companionship, friendship, feelings of wellness, determination, and some much needed funds for our Narre Warren Inner Wheel charity account,” Ms Kamerling said.
“We made it, we have walked Melbourne to Perth and then some. An amazing finish from our walkers.”
In a world without Covid, the devoted group would usually raise funds through a trusty Bunnings sausage stand at the start of the year, before hosting their annual fashion parade later in the year.
The parade, which is usually attended by up to 200 local women, has been held for almost four decades.
And while it’s hoped the usual fundraising activities will return next year, it’s not yet known if a walkathon will become a permanent feature.
“Who would have thought such a little idea could produce such great results,” Ms Kamerling added.
The Narre Warren Inner Wheel charity account supports National Inner Wheel Australia Project, Cord Blood Research as well as many local charities.
