Diabetes Tasmania’s flagship fundraising event PolliePedal’17, is continuing to build momentum, with Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Kate Warner, AC, Governor of Tasmania and Mr Warner saddling up alongside Tasmanian politicians for this year’s event.
The Hon Guy Barnett MP and Madeleine Ogilvie MP joined the Diabetes Tasmania team today to officially launch the 12th annual PolliePedal.
A team of 16 dedicated cyclists, including five state politicians, are geared up and set to spread awareness and educational messages about diabetes throughout their ride. This year, participants will focus on how Tasmanians can empower themselves to achieve better health outcomes.
The annual event commenced in partnership with The Hon Guy Barnett MP in 2006 and has since raised over $520,000 for diabetes education and community awareness activities within the state.
Peddling from Hadspen with the official launch at Cressy District School on Friday, 3 March, the riders will then travel through the Great Lakes on their 270km, three day journey, taking in Bothwell and New Norfolk before crossing the finish line at Government House on Sunday, 5 March.
Diabetes Tasmania CEO Caroline Wells said the growing support of PolliePedal was a strong sign Tasmanians are realising the importance of health education and starting to take notice of diabetes and the risks associated with the chronic illness.
“The event is vital, both as a fundraising initiative to assist us to deliver services, advocacy and support for people with diabetes, as well as providing an opportunity to engage with schools and local communities to convey important prevention and healthy lifestyle messages,” Ms Wells said.
“In 2006, PolliePedal commenced its partnership with Guy Barnett MP, who has type 1 diabetes, and since then the annual fundraiser has attracted many local, state and federal politicians as well as members of the Tasmanian community.
“We have gone one step further this year, and are privileged to have The Honourable Kate Warner and Mr Warner joining us on the final day of this year’s event as well as hosting the finish line celebrations.”
Diabetes Australia Ambassador Guy Barnett said the event has gone from strength to strength over the years.
“I have ridden every single kilometre of PolliePedal since its inception in 2006. I am proud that since the first event we have raised more than $520,000 to support people living with diabetes through provision of vital support and services to ensure Tasmanians can live well with diabetes,” said Mr Barnett.
“It’s not just to do with collecting donations, it’s about educating Tasmanians on the risks associated with diabetes. The riders love taking on a new adventure around the state, they visit schools, chat to the community and create a real awareness.”
Diabetes Tasmania
