Community & Business
19 November, 2022
Driving awareness success
The seventh annual Casali’s “Down Syndrome Queensland Awareness Drive” has been another huge success, attracting 142 participants and raising a total of $23,000 for the worthy cause.
Created in 2015 by Alex Arena in honour of his grandson, Milan Villella who was born with Down Syndrome in 2012, the event has grown in popularity each year, raising a total of $75,000 over the seven years it has been running.
Though both very hesitant at first, Milan’s parents’ Marie and John Villella, were soon swept up in the event, which they believe is primarily about raising awareness rather than money.
“Love doesn’t count chromosomes,” Marie said.
Milan was diagnosed with Down Syndrome three days after his birth and Mrs Villella said the support she has received from Down Syndrome Queensland has been a huge help in helping her navigate the new and difficult situation she suddenly found herself in.
Working through his business, Mr Arena created the annual October buggy ride through the (Cairns Regional Electricity Board), CREB track, down to the Daintree, six years ago.
At just over 70kms long, the CREB track is recognised as one of the most scenic, most adventurous and most challenging 4WD tracks in North Queensland.
The organisers hold a huge charity auction at the Bloomfield Cabins each year, treating participants to dinner and breakfast, before they continue on.
The 100-person cap Mr Arena placed on the event previously, was well and truly smashed this year with avid participants turning up in 43 Rural Terrain Vehicles (RTV’s), five four-wheel drive vehicles and one quad bike to ride the course.
“People with Down Syndrome don’t want any special treatment, they just want to be treated like normal,” Mr Arena said.
“We would like to thank our major sponsors, Kubota Australia and Donaldson filters and all those who have donated or helped out over the years, we are very grateful for your support.”
If you would like to join in for next year’s event on October 14-15, 2023, email marievillella@gmail.com or alan@casalis.com.au for the details.
“Numbers are starting to fill up already and we are excited to welcome our new sponsor Outback Solar and Outdoors,” Mr Arena said.
