To commemorate the Black Saturday bushfires almost one year ago, three Melbourne businessmen will run 220 kilometres around Port Phillip Bay in just two days.
They hope to rally support for the families of the 173 people that lost their lives and all those that where left homeless when the bushfires ravaged through 2000 homes.
On the eve of the first anniversary of the Black Saturday bushfires, Eric Louw, Martin Edwards and Jarrod Kanizay, will depart at 5:00 am from Federation Square and run to Queenscliff, a covering distance of around 120 kilometres on day one.
On February 7, day two, the trio will set off from Sorrento and run back into the heart of the city.
Commemorating Black Saturday
Event organiser and run participant, Jarrod Kanizay, says the marathon run was inspired by the tragic bushfires that changed the lives of hundreds of Australians.
“Black Saturday holds great significance for most Australians. Whilst there has been a massive recovery effort, it is incredibly important that we continue to remember the victims of bushfires and the communities who have suffered and continue to strive to rebuild their townships.
“Eric, Martin and myself were deeply moved when we participated in the Marysville Marathon last November. We see the Black Saturday Run as a way of helping Melbournians to remember the anniversary and as a way to demonstrate our support for the survivors of the bushfires and their communities.
“Rebuilding townships such as Marysville will take many years and they need our ongoing support. We hope the Black Saturday Run will help by making a contribution that can deliver real benefits to those who need it.
“Giving our support to all the townships affected by Black Saturday is imperative to helping them move ahead and by participating in the Black Saturday Remembrance Day we might help to encourage people to visit the towns and show their support for local tourist operators, cafes and attractions. We also seek donations to the Black Saturday Run appeal to support Black Saturday bushfire-affected communities”, Mr Kanizay said.
To make a donation or for more Information about Jarrod, Eric and Martin and the Black Saturday Run, visit the official website.