Geoff Lyons (Bass, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise to congratulate the MS Society of Tasmania on their recent successful fundraiser, the MS Megaswim, held last week at the Launceston Aquatic Centre. Teams of 15 people swam for a 24-hour period to raise money for the MS Society, including my daughter and son-in-law, who swam from eight till 11 pm. The funds raised by the Megaswim will allow Tasmanians living with MS to apply for Go for Gold scholarships, which will assist them to follow their dreams, whether these might be focused on sport, the arts, travel, education or other areas.

Living with MS is a 24 hour a day, seven day a week challenge. The 24-hour swim is a feat of endurance that reminds us of this challenge. MS affects three times as many women as men, with the average age of those diagnosed with the onset of MS being just 30 years old. Tasmania has the highest prevalence of MS per capita in Australia and there is no known cause or cure. At last count, $11,480.01 was raised, with Tahnee Hodgetts and Julie Sladden raising over $1,000 individually—a great achievement.

I would like to thank all the organisers and volunteers for a job well done, including Rotary and Rotaract of Tamar Sunrise, and Jess from my office, for barbecuing up a storm for the participants and their families during this event. Congratulations to all who participated.