Dane Waites is our own Cliffy; he loves to run and more than anything else he wants to run from Pambula to Perth.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
It’s a challenge that the vast majority of us wouldn’t even consider but for Dane it’s a passion that has burnt bright in his heart for some time.
Although it was hoped that Dane would run this year, the resources to support him on this multi-marathon event are not yet in place and the date has been moved to next year.
In the meantime though, the search is on for some serious sponsors, general volunteers and ideas to ensure that Dane’s dream is realised.
There will be a meeting on Monday, February 15, 5pm at the Lakeview Hotel, upstairs, to discuss the project.
For Dane it is not simply a run, but a fundraiser and a statement. Dane is autistic and aims to raise money for Autism Australia and mental health generally.
The aim and the ambition are there and six days a week Dane trains by running 35km each day as well as swimming and training in the gym. However, to get Dane from Pambula to Perth, a journey of some 4000km, will take more than several pairs to joggers.
The event would take four to five months; there would need to be a car in front to Dane to warn oncoming traffic and a support van behind him, plus a support person for Dane.
The cost of food, petrol and the need for volunteers all add up but Dane and his mum, Junee Waites, remain positive.
Dane desperately needs a sponsor to believe in the dream.
- Colin Dunn, Pambula Rotary Club
“The dream is in tact,” Junee said.
“He desperately needs a sponsor to believe in the dream,” Colin Dunn, of Pambula Rotary said.
Colin has negotiated with a number of organisations and local people who have offered a considerable amount of help.
“A lot of support is needed and we do need an organisation to back this,” Colin said.
“We also need a strong committee to give Dane the best chance to realising his dream,” he added.
In the meantime the fundraising continues with tins to promote Dane’s dream at various points around the local area.
If you would like to be involved, contact Junee Waites on 0427 249 295, email juneewaites@bigpond.com or go along to the meeting at the Lakeview Hotel on Monday, February 15 at 5pm.