Walk for cash

By Bridget Cook
FLINDERS MP Greg Hunt presented two cheques, totalling more than $35,000 to the beneficiaries of his recent Walk for Autism this month.
Mr Hunt made the presentation of funds raised during his walk at a special ceremony in Hastings to Abacus Learning Centre, which provides early intervention therapy for children with an autism spectrum disorder, and Autism Victoria.
Almost 400 people joined Mr Hunt in July and August this year during his 19-day, 500-kilometre sponsored walk around the Flinders electorate to raise awareness and funds for autism.
Along the way, Mr Hunt visited 56 local schools and community organisations to speak about the challenges presented by autism and to encourage families to raise money for the worthwhile cause.
On Friday 5 and Saturday 6 August Mr Hunt made his way into the City of Casey and visited schools and venues in his electorate including Pearcedale, Cranbourne South, Devon Meadows, Clyde and Tooradin primary schools.
Along the way, he also met many dedicated parents caring for children with autism and received donations from more than 100 individuals and organisations.
Me Hunt said donations came from local residents, schools, pre-schools, businesses, service clubs, sporting clubs and philanthropic organisations.
“My heartfelt thanks go to all those who donated,” he said.
Mr Hunt said he did the work for autism as it was an illness rarely reported on.
“So many mums and dads came to me with stories about their kids,” he said.
“I realised there was a much bigger issue out there than I understood.
“What has struck me most forcefully is the struggle many of these families have in accessing adequate support and assistance.
“I believe a lot more can be done to support families caring for children with autism.
“Crucially, community understanding helps make life better for those with autism.”
Mr Hunt said the next step in his ongoing campaign for better autism support would be tabling a motion in parliament this week.
He said the motion would highlight that Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnoses are on the rise and that families caring for a family member with an autism spectrum disorder needed greater support and community understanding.
He said he would call on Parliament to offer bipartisan support for a National Autism Summit to discuss how best to deliver support to families caring for a family member with an Autism Spectrum Disorder.