Sunday, 23 June 2024
Parramatta Park
Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC, Governor of New South Wales

Thank you, Carolyn and Jaxon.^[1]

Warami mittigar^[2] 

This means ‘hello friends’ in the language of the Dharug, Traditional Owners of these lands and waterways and to whose Elders, past, present, and future, I pay my respects.

As Patron of Muscular Dystrophy NSW, it is once again a privilege and delight to be here this morning for the Big Red Roll and Stroll here in Parramatta Park.

The weather might not be as spectacular as it was last year, but there’s never a bad time to get out into the fresh air with friends and family for some fun and exercise.

Today is not only a chance to celebrate our wonderful neuromuscular community, but also raise funds for MDNSW, which does so much work empowering people living with neuromuscular conditions and their families by providing services, support, and community.

Every year, around 300 people – young, old, and in-between – are given opportunities to build independence, foster connection and share knowledge and experiences with each other.

MDNSW’s community and peer support programs have been doing this since 1957 – that’s nearly 70 years! – and their efforts and advocacy have changed countless lives.

Big thanks to Charlotte and the team – the dedicated staff, volunteers, and supporters past and present – for all you do.

And to those coming out in your red, white, and blue and braving the weather today: thank you for being part of this wonderful day of celebration.

For raising awareness of, reflecting on, and fundraising for (so far, this year, over $60,000!) the extraordinary and awe-inspiring neuromuscular community of NSW.

[1] Ms Carolyn Campbell-McLean, Peer Connect Program Coordinator, and Mr Jaxon Taylor, Ambassador, MDNSW, MCs.

[2] ‘Hello friend/s’