In 2017 I ran solo from Melbourne to Darwin - 3,700kms - to raise funds and awareness for Beyond Blue. For 93 days, I pushed all my supplies (up to 95kgs) in the 'Intrepid' an ad-hoc buggy thrown together from spare bike parts and aluminium bits through the centre of Australia.
Buoyed by my success with that challenge, I've set my goals on a bigger one....
At 10am on the 10th March, 2019, I will set out from the MCG to run one lap around this magnificent country we all share. The 15,000km route will take me along the major coast roads, sticking to sealed roads as much as I can as the Intrepid (II) won't do that well in gravel. I also estimate to be camping at least 65% of the time.
If I take rest days every 10 days or so, it should take me approximately 345 days. As before, I will run about 50kms a day, some days more, some days less - depending on terrain ... and assuming reasonable weather conditions, and manageable injuries. I fully expect to be running in temperatures up to 40 degrees.
As my run is four-times as long, I am now raising funds for four worthy causes; Beyond Blue, the GO Foundation, the Royal Flying Doctor Service and The Smith Family. Each one does fantastic work, but they are facing an uphill battle to do what's needed properly - hence the requirements for individuals to help raise support from wherever they can.
I hope to visit many communities where these organisations play a part, and post articles on my blog/social media.
The GO Foundation was founded by Sydney Swans Legends, Adam Goodes and Michael O’Loughlin to empower young Indigenous Australians through education. As proud Aboriginal men, their names are synonymous with integrity, equality and opportunity.
Beyond Blue
Beyond Blue is here for everyone in Australia – especially during this challenging time. We’re dedicated to supporting the lives of individuals, families and communities affected by anxiety, depression and suicide
Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) - Victoria
The Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (RFDS) is one of the largest and most comprehensive aeromedical organisations in the world.
Smith Family
The Smith Family believes that education is one of the world’s most powerful change agents. That’s why we focus on helping young Australians to overcome educational inequality caused by poverty.
As a national, independent charity, every day we work with thousands of children and their families.
About Fundraiser
Andre Jones
Northcote, VIC
Sun, 27 Oct 2019
Michael Boland
$ 50
go for it Andre - great work
Mon, 23 Sep 2019
Anonymous
$ 12
Fri, 13 Sep 2019
Penny Kent
$ 100
Great effort Andre and so pleased we could be there to celebrate your achievements and support some very important causes. Penny and Simon.
Wed, 28 Aug 2019
Guy & Sarah Barnden
$ 20
What a fantastic thing you are doing Andre. You are an inspiration
Tue, 27 Aug 2019
Balu Rao
$ 155
Sat, 24 Aug 2019
Celebration evening - friends and family
$ 380
Thu, 8 Aug 2019
Wendy Dunstan
$ 10
Sat, 27 Jul 2019
Tracey Ker
$ 50
Andre, you have shown us what is possible, by just getting out there and giving it your best. Going solo on such a long trip is a massive feat.
Sun, 21 Jul 2019
KASSANDRA OKELLY
$ 40
Amazing achievement well done to you!
Sat, 20 Jul 2019
rafi swimbikerun
$ 25
Amazing running effort and inspiring to see what one can do creating awareness in support of others! ✅
The GO Foundation was founded by Sydney Swans Legends, Adam Goodes and Michael O’Loughlin to empower young Indigenous Australians through education. As proud Aboriginal men, their names are synonymous with integrity, equality and opportunity.
Beyond Blue
Beyond Blue is here for everyone in Australia – especially during this challenging time. We’re dedicated to supporting the lives of individuals, families and communities affected by anxiety, depression and suicide
Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) - Victoria
The Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (RFDS) is one of the largest and most comprehensive aeromedical organisations in the world.
Smith Family
The Smith Family believes that education is one of the world’s most powerful change agents. That’s why we focus on helping young Australians to overcome educational inequality caused by poverty.
As a national, independent charity, every day we work with thousands of children and their families.
go for it Andre - great work