Community & Business
25 June, 2022
Calling pigeon punters
BIRDY McBirdface (pictured) will be joining 35 of his pigeon friends next month as the annual Moyamoya Foundation Great Blue Pigeon Race kicks off again to raise funds for moyamoya research.
This year, all funds raised from the event will not only go towards the Moyamoya Foundation but also the Children’s Cancer Institute in honour of organiser and founder of the foundation Nicola Baker’s late nephew who passed away from cancer last year.
The race will involve a flock of homing pigeons who will fly almost 90km from Innisfail to Cairns, with the “owner” of the winning pigeon to win the ultimate cash prize.
“We run about eight to 10 books of birds, setting them off at Innisfail this year and finishing at Cairns,” Ms Baker said.
“I love doing fundraisers and being able to put a spin on them that’s a little different and fun.
“It is great to be putting those feelings of grief and loss and turning it into kindness.”
This is not the first time the Moyamoya Foundation has hosted this fundraiser, with pigeon punters from the previous four years ready to take on this year’s big race and mascot Birdy McBirdface already stirring them up online.
Those wanting to get involved can purchase “not for eating” online for $20 and affectionately name them before it takes flight.
$10 from the bird will go towards the Moyamoya Foundation and the Children’s Cancer Institute and the remainder will go into the $200 cash prize for the winning bird.
To get involved visit www.moyamoyaaustralia.org.au/the-great-blue-pigeon-race
