Posted 2:36:42 PM by Don
A fine day blossomed for our 10:30 start at Cottesloe Beach. We were greeted by a few television cameras and a swagger of well-wishers making a great group photo we hope to have on the web in the next week. There will be some delay with pictures due to our inability to scan.

After the traditional filling of a waterbottle with Indian Ocean water and a quick dip, the team made their way up the hill to the surf lifesaving club, where, following a few words for the camera, the first steps were made.

Running a confused route and adding an unnecessary kilometre, I was soon back on track with the crew doing a sterling job for a group with limited experience in such an activity. The 11.7km was completed in leisurely 1hr 30 with the team making their way back to the home for lunch, a swim and a little backyard cricket. We have a few final preparations, with our roomy van allowing for plenty of stock - a blessing!

Thus far we have had radio interviews on these programs: 2UE Sydney, 2GB Sydney, 2BL Sydney, 2BL Melbourne, ABC Perth, 6KG Kalgoorlie, 6PR Perth and 96.5 Brisbane. There is an interview scheduled for 8:15am, Tuesday 8th January, with 2UE Sydney's John Stanley.

Looking forward in anticipation for tomorrow's departure...

Posted 6:25:58 PM by Don
Following a gruelling 7 hour flight from Sydney to Perth with a stopover in Melbourne where the rear door proceeded to fall off the plane "just like it does with a car" according to the airflight attendent, the four crew and I arrived to a nice reception from our host families - The Pearsons and The Blakes. The afternoon consisted of preliminary gear checks and many media interviews with the van to be collected in the morning.

The crew are all tired but are all looking forward to hitting the open road. I empathise - I've had just about enough of 'organisation' and combined with a lack of sleep is causing a decline in my health - not a good start. However, I'm optomistic about it all and will try to keep you posted on our progress. We will not have direct internet access for the journey, however letters travel fast with truckies and the updates should not be too delayed.

I want to emphasise that this run also has the aim to inspire all to achieve. Remember the only failure is the failure of not trying and that you ultimate dream is merely an acknowlegment away.

Posted 2:01:58 PM by Don
The media has become an integral part of the run. The Australian Associated Press (providing service to all major newsbroadcasters) are compiling an article which will be forwarded by Friday. A national press release has been sent through the Fred Hollows Foundation. Pre-recorded interviews with Radio National as well as a live interview 9:45am, Friday 4th, with 2GB and Luke Bona are scheduled. Also, the recent 'Outback' magazine, focussed on the Year Of The Outback, includes all events staged in 2002 - relating to the outback, and press have contacted the team via this alert.

Posted 2:53:00 PM by Don
Just five days until the run's commencement at Cottesloe and I was privileged to have Bruce Campbell MBE, founder and Chairman of 2002 Year Of The Outback, for lunch today. We spoke of the great year ahead with over 450 events encouraging interest and increasing awareness in Outback past, present and potential.

Hope you folks are ready for an interesting story to unfold. We'll try our best to keep you updated, and if you can, make your way down to the 'course' some time to say g'day. Don't worry I'll be at the Sydney Opera House around early March - will you?

Posted 2:48:04 PM by Don
These details confirmed - Unnoficial start: 10:00am, Saturday 5th January, Cottesloe Beach Surf Lifesaving Club, Perth. Official start: 9:00am, Sunday 6th January, Perth Bell Tower. Whilst in Perth the team may be contacted via this number: 0421521211.