Wendy’s big walk for new community bus

Mackenzie Archer

TO mark the 35th anniversary of disability service provider Aurora, Berridale resident Wendy Ladaniwskyj will embark on a walking challenge to raise funds for a much-needed new bus.

Beginning the 26 March, Ms Ladaniwskyj will walk around Risdon Brook Dam twice a day for seven days straight.

“I have always loved to walk and after seeing the state of the current bus I decided to set myself the challenge of walking 56kms and raising $50,000,” she said.

“The current bus is more than 20 years old and is no longer reliable for transporting people that access services at Aurora.”

After retiring as a special needs teacher aid in 2018, Ms Ladaniwskyj started volunteering at Aurora fortnightly and teaching clients line dancing.

“The services offered at Aurora enrich the lives of Tasmanians living with a disability,” she said.

“Without these services many Tasmanians would be left without support to live a fulfilling and meaningful life.”

Aurora founder and managing director of services Joy Cairns said she was thrilled to receive Ms Ladaniwskyj’s fundraising offer.

“On top of providing direct care and support to the many people we provide for, we also have to fundraise,” she said.

“We do not receive any government funding, meaning community support is crucial for the success of our programs.”

Aurora provides a range of daily services including hospitality training, education services, leisure activities, sporting opportunities and social outings.

“The original bus is grinding to a halt, meaning the future of our services is currently in limbo for the 350 people that access our programs,” Ms Cairns said.

“Everyone in Tasmania should be afforded the opportunity to lead a fulfilling life and we thank Ms Ladaniwskyj for taking on this challenge for Aurora.”

To donate towards the purchase of a new bus visit https:// donate.stripe.com/ 28ocQnb192vz6qcfZc