Television news presenter Dan Bourchier gets set to MC Memory Walk & Jog 2020

Dementia Australia

ABC TV’s Dan Bourchier is preparing to co-host the 2020 Canberra Memory Walk & Jog event for the first time.

Mr Bourchier will take to the mic this Sunday 23 February at Lake Burley Griffin for the first in a series of twelve events nationwide, which together form Dementia Australia’s largest fundraising initiative.

The ABC Canberra news identity said it was great to see Memory Walk & Jog returning to the city.

“I am looking forward to hosting the Memory Walk & Jog for the first time this year, for what promises to be a great day out for an important cause,” Mr Bourchier said.

“I’ve witnessed the effect of dementia in my own family, and want to do all I can to help have a conversation and raise much needed funds.

“Dementia is such a big issue in Australia with more than 447,000 people estimated to be living with the condition. With prevalence increasing dramatically year-on-year, it is likely dementia will touch every Australian in some way during their lifetimes. That is why I was happy to put my hand up to support this event.”

Dementia Australia CEO Maree McCabe said she was thrilled to welcome Mr Bourchier to the team for the day.

“It is wonderful when high-profile supporters so generously offer their time to get involved. It all helps to add to the experience and makes for an extra special day,” Ms McCabe said.

Memory Walk & Jog raises much-needed funds to help provide invaluable support, education and resources for people impacted by dementia in Canberra and across Australia.

“As well, they’re fabulous gatherings of people impacted by dementia who get together, walk or run to raise money, share stories, and everyone comes away from the day knowing they are not alone,” Ms McCabe said.

This year, participants can take part as an individual or as part of a group, and can choose from a 2km, 5km or 10km walk, jog or run. You are invited to help us raise $1.3 million for the series, which we are hoping will involve more than 10,000 participants across the country.

Memory Walk & Jog is a fun event for all ages. The course is family-friendly, and, no matter your age or level of fitness, everyone is encouraged to participate and join in the fun. There will be prizes for the top fundraisers, as well as raffles, plenty of entertainment, food stalls and special guest appearances from Memory Walk & Jog mascot Al the Elephant.

Registration is open for the Memory Walk & Jog 2020. Register today or find out about other events happening around the country by visiting memorywalk.com.au

Dementia Australia is the national peak body and charity for people, of all ages, living with all forms of dementia, their families and carers. It provides advocacy, support services, education and information. An estimated 447,000 people have dementia in Australia. This number is projected to reach almost 1.1 million by 2058. Dementia Australia is the new voice of Alzheimer’s Australia. Dementia Australia’s services are supported by the Australian Government.

National Dementia Helpline: 1800 100 500

An interpreter service is available

/Public Release.