Mark Gowty (second from left) and his Fight Cancer support team.
Tocumwal’s Mark Gowty will again take part in the Massive Murray Paddle, a five day, 415km paddle down the Murray River from Yarrawonga to Koondrook to raise funds for Can Assist.
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The endurance event will take place from November 17-21, and includes one day in which 90km will be travelled.
This is the third year that Mark’s efforts will be raising money for Can Assist, a charity which provides aid and financial support for people going through cancer treatment.
Helping Mark organise his fundraising is Can Assist patient liaison Vicki Nolen, who spoke to the importance of the cause.
“Cancer is something that everyone either has experienced or has been touched by, and it is something that people from a rural environment need support with,” she said.
“Cancer doesn’t discriminate, and it is often very costly with the treatments these people need.”
Mark’s preparation for the event has been limited by work commitments, but he will now be getting his 5.8m, 8kg boat on the water every other day if not every day.
Meanwhile, he has been busy with physical training, including weight training and short and long-distance paddles where possible.
However, it is the mental strengthening he feels is more beneficial.
“When you’re in an uncomfortable position for a lot of time like that, you can really grow spiritually and mentally,” he said.
Mark Gowty has been busy training for the Massive Murray Paddle.
“You’ve got some beautiful things around you, and you get to be away from technology.”
Vicki also spoke to the growing community support for the cause, particularly with a now long-standing partnership with Can Assist.
“I think with the continuity of now being with them (Can Assist) for three years, the community support is really growing,” she said.
The pair hope an upcoming fundraiser at the Farmer’s Arm in Tocumwal on November 16 will draw strong support for Mark and generate some much-needed funds for Can Assist.
For any who would like to donate to the cause, they can do so via the bank account:
BSB: 083 577 Account: 913288, reference MG.
Donations will be accepted up until November 20.
Anyone looking for more information on Can Assist can visit tocumwal@canassist.org.au or www.canassist.org.au.
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