An American Independence Day to remember for our two Flight to End Polio heroes.

The combined Rotary Clubs of Cairns organised an outstanding fundraiser on 4 July 2023 to welcome the Flight to End Polio pilots to Australia. 

Organised by Past President of Cairns Sunrise Rotary and now Area Governor, "wonder woman" Rita Zappulla, the event raised $6,200 for the End Polio campaign. Rita was assisted by Rotarians and supporters, including World's Greatest Meal founder and polio survivor Susanne Rea and District PolioPlus Subcommittee Chair Nauman Abbasi.

Pilot John Ockenfels spoke about the challenges of flying around the world in a single engine Cessna - including encountering ice over Egypt. 

Unfortunately, co-pilot, Peter Teahen was not unable to attend as he was in Cairns Hospital. Peter picked up an infection in India but has now fully recovered.

The event was held in a hangar at Cairns Airport and had 90 attendees. Finger food and drinks, as well as the camaraderie of participating in this once in a lifetime event, were enjoyed and appreciated by all.

As well as sponsorships and attendee contributions, an auction at the event raised $2,000. The total funds, with the added Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation contribution will allow for the vaccination of 88,813 children.

Rita also organised some great media coverage, including a segment on Seven News Cairns and a great article in the Cairns local paper on 7 July 2023.