Nationals Senator Bridget McKenzie today urged regional Victorians to Run 4 Farmer Health held as part of the Melbourne Marathon next month.
“Before anyone baulks at the mention of a marathon, they can be assured there are smaller runs they can take part in to support this great cause,” she said.
“The Run 4 Farmer Health will raise awareness and funds for the National Centre for Farmer Health which works, through research and education, to promote and ensure the health, safety and well-being of our farmers.
“The aim is to raise $20,000 from the run. The Coalition federal and state governments have also provided $625,000 in funding towards the centre’s continued operations.”
Senator McKenzie said the Victorian-based National Centre for Farmer Health is a vital service that’s making a difference across the country.
“It doesn’t matter if you live in town or on a farm, our regional communities benefit,” she said. “So put your runners on and start training, and register for the run today as part of the Run 4 Farmer Health Team.
“There’s the 42 kilometre marathon and 21 kilometre half marathon, then the smaller 10, five and three kilometre events, to suit all levels of fitness and ages. There are still four weeks to the run on October 12 – plenty of time to start training.
“If you can’t make it, please help us with our fundraising by making a donation. Take your pick which unfit pollie you’d like to back – we’re all in it for the same, good reason!”
Senator McKenzie joined her parliamentary state colleagues and representatives from the National Centre for Farmer Health and Victorian Farmers’ Federation in a training run in Melbourne’s Treasury Gardens this morning.
“The National Centre for Farmer Health and VFF are organising this fabulous event and we should support them in ensuring it’s a great success. There are even training tips on the Centre’s website http://www.farmerhealth.org.au/run-4-farmer-health if you need some motivation,” she said.
“Let’s use this opportunity to support our hard-working farmers, and to get fit. I look forward to seeing you there.”
Victorian Farmers Federation media manager and instigator of Run 4 Farmer Health Tom Whitty added: “This is a not to be missed opportunity to shine a spotlight on regional health.
“With more than 73 runners already signed up, it’s time to join the movement. Help us get healthy together and run in solidarity to support farmer and regional health.”
For more details on the Run 4 Farmer Health and donations, visit: http://www.farmerhealth.org.au/run-4-farmer-health. For information on the National Centre for Farmer Health, visit: http://www.farmerhealth.org.au/
PIC CAPTION: Senator McKenzie joins VFF president, Peter Tuohey in the Run 4 Farmer Health.