Narooma Rotarian Michael O’Connor is about 20 per cent of the way through his epic 1000km walk along the Bibbulmun Track from Albany to Perth in Western Australia.
The going has been tough with the track truly isolated and hardly a soul seen along the way. But he has seen some breathtaking scenery.
Inspired by his late sister and supported by Narooma Rotary, Michael spent six months raising money and training for this epic adventure.
Through the generosity of total strangers, he has been able to raise $10,000, which will be equally shared between the charities Polio Plus and Friends of Rangi.
Rotary’s goal to end polio in the world is getting close. And 20 years ago there were many hundreds of thousands of cases in the world. Last year less than 30 cases were recorded worldwide. Friends of Rangi meanwhile is helping build a library for the school they support in Kenya.
Mr O’Connor is posting photos on his Facebook page tracking his progress and also sent us a few diary entries for his most recent days.
Day 12 to Walpole – A delightful walk through enormous Red Tingle Trees. Summary 1 have completed 20 per cent of the walk. At least 300,000 steps as with my short legs and up and down sandhills I was at times taking very short steps and so it could be close to 400,000. Pack is weighing in at 22kg and I can't seem to reduce it without compromising in food and water which I will not do.
Day 11 Giants to Frankland River Hut – No I am not in Tasmania. Lovely walking in woods . Met one walker who decided to have a break from riding his bike from Perth to Melbourne - he is raising funds for mental health. I would be sleeping but he is a fit 35yr old. The only other walkers I met were a couple from Perth who were out for a few days walking. Had a swim, more of a waĺlow due to it being shallow in the Franklin River. Very cool so getting my Numnutz swim in early. That night invaded by 17 walkers at Franklin River Hut. They were a group on a wilderness experience (young teenagers from Victoria who had troubled/difficult lives being given a great experience). They were a great bunch
Day 10 – Walked from Rame Head to Giants Mozzies bad at night so put up tent in hut . Lots of sandhills and then some beach walking. Met Lonewolf on track who is about to complete the track in 28 days . The only other walker I met was hoping to catch his dinner fishing on the beach. He looked as if he needed a good feed. Walking bý enormous trees.
Mr O’Connor also packed a few Narooma News newspapers for the obligatory photos along the way and we will keep you posted on his progress over the upcoming weeks.
Stan Gorton
Walkley-nominated journalist based at The Islander on Kangaroo Island with an interest in the local community and the environment.
Walkley-nominated journalist based at The Islander on Kangaroo Island with an interest in the local community and the environment.
