Dozens of West Australians are taking part in 24-hour fundraisers for Telethon this weekend, including a planned 120km running challenge and an inaugural swimathon in Perth’s north.
At Fitstop Applecross, member Jaymee-Lee Quarmby is running 5km every hour from 12.30pm on Saturday, with the aim of completing 120km over 24 hours.
The effort began at the Rowing Pavilion at noon, when dozens of fellow members joined Ms Quarmby for her first run. Fitstop Applecross manager Noah Ash said he would take part in the overnight session from about midnight.
“We’re pretty proud of the community we’ve built, and it’s so good to see everyone getting around Jaymee and the incredible cause of Telethon,” Mr Ash said.
He said people had already been in touch to confirm they would attend the finish, adding: “Telethon is just such an incredible cause, and doing these things is no skin off our back, it’s just doing something that can help the people and families in need.”
Further north, nearly 90 swimmers are taking part in the first 24-hour swimathon at Wanneroo Aquamotion.
City of Wanneroo mayor Linda Aitken said she had watched Telethon since childhood and was proud the local community was able to support the event.
“Sometimes it’s only a little change that makes a difference, but that little change makes such a huge difference to someone’s life and it’s absolutely fantastic to have that within our city,” she said.
Money raised through the 24-hour challenges and other fundraisers will go directly to Telethon to support sick children and families across Western Australia.
Telethon is being held at RAC Arena over the weekend, with the event broadcast live on Seven and 7Plus.
