Phil and Joyce Ogden, from the Rotary Club of South Launceston in District 9830, are people of action.

Article by PDG Bob Aitken, Public Relations Chair, Rotary Club of Lower Blue Mountains, NSW

On 17 May 2022, they set off from Perth to ride to Adelaide to draw attention to a cause they are passionate about, Rotary International’s END POLIO NOW campaign.

Both are 72 years old and enjoy tandem cycling. When they set out on this adventure, a journey that ended up being 2,960 km, they were confident and determined.

Now, after visiting dozens of Rotary Clubs along the route, being interviewed for newspapers, radio and television, meeting mayors in several communities and giving numerous presentations on the urgent need to eradicate polio, they have been described as “remarkable ambassadors for End Polio Now.”

Joyce and Phil crossed the finish line on Wednesday 22 June, at Adelaide Oval, where the Governor of District 9510, Jeff Neale, and his wife Jenny welcomed them to the meeting of the Rotary Club of Adelaide and congratulated them on such an outstanding effort.

A huge thank you to all in Western Australia and South Australia who showed very generous Rotary hospitality.

Phil and Joyce said they are extremely grateful for all those who supported them with housing, transport, meals and donations on the journey.

Their Raise for Rotary page shows a total of more than $33,701 and they are confident that with last minute donations coming in they will reach their fundraising goal of $40,000 in the coming days.

Retiring Zone 8 End Polio Now Coordinator, Past District Governor Bob Aitken, thanked the Ogdens for their personal commitment, their courage and their endurance.

Please give now to END POLIO: raise.rotary.org/phil-ogden/fundraiser

Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i1fscXl-6Pk