Community & Business
6 May, 2023
Firies run for refuge
LOCAL firefighters are trading their fire-proof suits for running shoes and entering this year’s Great Wheelbarrow Race while raising money for the Mareeba Animal Refuge.
There hasn’t been a Queensland Fire and Rescue Services team since 2018 and now under the guidance of race veteran Jared Hohns, the team has been revived.
So far, the team has raised $3000 for the animal refuge and is currently seeking more donations and sponsors to hop on board and help support them.
Jared said the team’s expectations are to go out and to have as much fun as possible while raising money for a good cause.
“The Animal Refuge was our choice of charity because there is a lot of hard work the team do that doesn’t get noticed, it is an independent, non-government community-based charity, providing animal care and protection services,” he said.
“Each year, Australia wide 135,000 animals are received, with 20,000 of cats and dogs being euthanised due to medical, behaviour and other purposes.
“It costs more than $100 million each year to deliver services which help improve the lives of Australian animals.
“It was only a couple years ago that our local shelter almost closed its doors for good due to not having the required funds to im-prove the quality of the building that had violated multiple building codes.
“The refuge is one of the only ones on the Tablelands that helps our animals as far as Cooktown and Cairns.”
The team is comprised of a mix of race newbies and veterans with Jared and his brother Jordan having 15 years of race experience between them.
Other experienced runners include Dylan Atkinson, Jason Lea, Tracy Marcel and Kyle Rayner while Megan Hendry, Tommy Daly and Haydan Bonaccorsi will be attempting the race for the first time.
For how to donate or become a sponsor, contact Jared at jh_unit_97@hotmail.com
The 20th Great Wheelbarrow Race will be held from 12-14 May, starting in Mareeba.
