Jason Falinski (Mackellar, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

On Sunday I had the pleasure of seeing off Gordon Robb and Bridget Hansen on the start of their epic Lighthouse to Lighthouse charity event for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, a gruelling journey that will see them cover 900 kilometres between the Barrenjoey and Byron Bay lighthouses over two weeks. Gordon and Bridget will be running, kayaking and cycling to raise money for the foundation and raise awareness of type 1 diabetes.

This journey is personal. Gordon's son Callum was only eight years old when he was diagnosed with the disease at Westmead Children's Hospital. It was a shocking new reality for his young family. Both Gordon and Bridget can get quite emotional recounting how hard it has been for the family to adapt.

Twenty-four hundred people are diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in Australia every year. It is one of the most severe chronic diseases affecting our children. The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation helps to improve the lives of these children; they assist their families; and, vitally, they are searching for a cure.

Today, Callum manages his disease brilliantly, with the help of a diabetes dog and a sensor attached to his bicep. Although it is still a daily struggle, Callum's family is grateful for all the support they have received and continue to receive. This journey is a way of giving back, and I wish Bridget and Gordon godspeed.