Newsletter for the Rotary Club of Greater Geraldton - Issue No.: 784 Issue Date: 13 May, 2024

Rotary ride around Australia against malaria began on 2nd March at Coffs Harbour. The team headed west after travelling up to Cairns and came to us from Carnarvon. We welcomed them at Birdwood House where we had an hour of fellowship followed by a barbecue then a presentation.

Steve Carroll had memories of his time in Geraldton and an experience where Doc Taylor told him to get to the hospital in no uncertain terms. The Doc didn't have the same vivid memory but, let's face it, red wine can reduce ones capacity over time.

The purpose of the meeting was a presentation by Steve and his support crew and wife Dorene as they traverse Australia in an effort to raise money to overcome, and perhaps one day eradicate, Malaria.

There is a personal reason behind their campaign as they lost a daughter to malaria in 1989 after a visit to Borneo. Steve also continues to suffer from the disease. 

The other members of the crew included Grahme Rayner who is riding a modified motorcycle, due to the fact he has a prosthetic leg, and a husband and wife team who are based in Laos. The group are representing the Williamtown Rotary Club and aim to raise $30,000.00. So far they have collected $16,000.00.

The evening was very informative and gave a real insight into the dreadful nature of the disease. Ian Creed, president of the Rotary club of Geraldton gave a vote of thanks and presented a cheque on behalf of his club.