IT’S about 120km from Charters Towers to Townsville – a fair drive in anyone’s language. But by horse-drawn wagon? Charters Towers locals Jim and Joan Barrett did just that last month in two hand-made horse-drawn wagons. Well, almost.
Only 500 metres from the finish line, Joan and her granddaughter Julie came to grief when the airbrakes of a truck behind them spooked their pony, causing the wagon to overturn. Luckily they escaped with only minor injuries. Jim and Joan, both aged in their 70s, took on the four-day challenge to raise vital funds for Cancer Council Queensland’s prostate cancer research. “Our family has been affected by cancer many times over the years,” Joan said.
“We hope our efforts will help to ensure our grandchildren and their children will never have to lose a loved one to cancer.” Jim and Joan were overwhelmed by the support of their local community.
“This is our last big challenge for a while, so we’ve worked extra hard to make sure we raise as much as possible for this great cause,” Joan said. Cancer Council Queensland’s North Queensland fundraising co-ordinator Heather Martin said the Barretts were living proof that anyone, regardless of age, could help make a difference in the fight to create a cancer-free future. “Our organisation survives on the support of inspirational Queenslanders like Jim and Joan, whose efforts prove anything’s possible with a little courage and determination,” Heather said. Family members from across Queensland joined the couple along the way. The Barrett’s team, complete with three miniature and two Shetland ponies which pulled the wagons, camped at Mingela, Calcium and Anthill Plains on their way to Townsville. The challenge raised almost $7000.
To donate, contact the Cancer Council on 4787-2205.
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