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Pensioner Pete's Power Paddle for Cancer

By Peter Dixon

In Loving Memory of Helen Rita Dixon 24 Jan 1956 - 9 March 2025

My wife Helen, passed away on the morning of 9 March 2025.  We had been married for 47 years and I know life will never be the same.  
Helen had been battling Pancreatic Cancer for over 20 Months, spending many long days at the Chemotherapy and Radiation Departments in Albury, various emergency departments she had to visit, and her final days in the Bright Hospital.  In all that time, I never heard her complain, NEVER!  She is the toughest and loveliest woman I have ever known.
15 years ago, Helen acted as support crew member when my daughter and I paddled down the Murray River to the mouth in South Australia.  With that in mind, I am planning a similar trip this year, starting in September, as a Fundraiser for the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre.  Instead of my daughter, I will be co-paddling with our pet Poodle Maggie, and my good friend Geoff Barton has volunteered to be our Support Member.  If everything goes to plan, we will be paddling about 2,400 kms.
Everybody, the doctors, admin staff, nurses and orderlies at the Cancer Centre do an amazing job but they need your help.  All the money raised will go to new facilities, services and research.  
Please get behind us and donate what ever you can afford!

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$107,711

My Goal

$100,000

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My Updates

Thank you

Tuesday 2nd Dec
Okay folks. I know I’ve finished the trip but I think I’ve got one more update to do. Well not so much an update as a thankyou. Throughout everything that has happened since I first contacted the cancer centre about the trip, my daughter Hayley, has been helping me with everything. She has been my supporter, secretary, promoter and media manager all the way through. She was there at the start and finish of the trip and also managed to visit us on three different occasions in between. I know that without her, our fundraising would not have been nearly as successful, so thank you very much Hayley for all your work and support.
By the way, you all know that Hayley used to enter my updates on Facebook for me, but I’m doing this one myself. You can tell that because there are no spelling mistakes. Yes, I’m finally entering the 21st century.
So long folks. I hope you’ve enjoyed our updates and thankyou to everyone who has supported us through this journey.

Final Update - November 4th

Tuesday 2nd Dec
Alrighty then, time for Pensioner Pete's last update.....
Friday was almost called off before we started. It rained all night until about 4am, but by the time I got up at 5am, it was starting to clear. The first 1.5 hours were perfect conditions but shortly after that, the wind picked up and frustrated our progress for most of the day. To make things a bit more scary, I noticed lightning off in the distance, but luckily it didn't get to close to us. I came close to calling it off a couple more times but both times the wind seemed to abate long enough for me to get back in the kayak.
My original plan was to hug the coast as much as possible but at one stage, if I did that, that trip would have taken an extra 1.5hrs, so I decided to cut across a very large bay. It was a bit foothardy really, because the further from shore we got, the larger the waves grew. Anyway the Safari H2O stood up well to everything we and mother nature thew at it. It's tough as old boots!!
By the way, if you're wondering what is the big deal with Lake Alexandrina, its 37kms long and 21kms wide with a surface area of 64,900 hectares, so when the weather's not the best it can be a bit hard to handle.
We had another change of plans on Saturday. We were going to just paddle to Clayton Bay and then do the rest the following day, but when I saw the weather reports, it made more sense to get to Goolwa on the first day because there was some strong winds coming on Sunday.
We had a great start getting from Narrung to Point Sturt in just a little over 2 hours. It felt a little daunting cutting across the lake because it's about 8 or 9kms of open water. When you're only in a small kayak you can feel a bit vulnerable. Luckily I had a gentle tail wind all the way.
My navigator, Maggie May, almost made a bad mistake heading towards Clayton Bay. After Point Sturt there are channel markers directing users in the right direction. We didn't realise though that the markers split up, with one lot going down to Mundoo Channel and the other one heading towards Goolwa. It didn't help that we lost phone reception either.... Thanks Telstra..... More through good luck than good navigating, we realised our mistake just in time. We probably did one extra km than we had to which wasn't too bad.
Speaking of Maggie, something happened way back around the middle of September that I wasn't game to tell you all about at the time, but I figure with the passing of time, you might not be quite so critical of me. Geoff had to pick us up from Morgans Beach, so we put all the gear in the car, popped the kayak on the roof and off we went, with me driving. The road was terrible, with huge pot holes everywhere. After about 1/2km, there was a very bad one, so I stopped to see if it would be better to go off the track. When I looked out the window, there was Maggie May, running along side. WE'D FORGOTTEN ALL ABOUT HER!!!. Anyway, I got out, gave her a big hug and she was happy.
Getting back to Saturdays trip to Goolwa, everything went well until we got to the Hindmarsh Island Bridge. The river did a U-Turn and it was like someone had turned on a huge fan. The wind seemed to be blowing from about 3 directions. I tried to get near the coast for some protection but it seemed to take forever. Eventually, we made it but my whole body was aching. Maggie wasn't very happy either.
At last!!! The big day!! The weather forecast for Sunday wasn't great but when we woke up it looked pretty good. Because we had guite a few people coming down to see the finish, including my daughter Georgia, who was flying in from Sydney at 9am, we had decided to leave about 11am. By 8am, however, things were starting to look ominous. The wind had started to pick up and it kept getting stronger and stronger. By 10am, we decided to go down to the barrage to see if we could get in the water. Unfortunately it was worse there than in the caravan park, so we decided to cancel it for the day. It was far too dangerous. We rang everyone up to tell them it was off.
Just before we went back, I thought maybe if we go over to Hindmarsh Island, we might be able to put in on the opposite side of the channel because it may have a bit more protection from the island itself. So we went across the bridge to see if we could find a suitable spot. Eventually we found access to the channel, although we had to carry the kayak about 300mtrs. The channel looked terrific. Hardly a ripple because of the island and the barrage.
We rang everyone up and told them it was back on and off we went. It soon occurred to me that we might have made a slight mistake because the further we got, the stronger the winds became and the bigger the waves were getting. The only saving grace was that it was coming from behind. It got so strong that it felt like we were surfing instead of kayaking, so it wasn't all that hard as much as it was uncomfortable. Water was splashing over the back of the kayak so we were both saturated. By this stage, Maggie was squeezed in between my legs for protection and I have to say, she handled it pretty well.
Eventually the Murray Mouth came into view and I could see lots of cars in the car park opposite. All of a sudden, people started sounding their horns which felt fantastic. WE HAD MADE IT!!!
What a trip. I need to thank everyone who has had anything to do with this trip. All the generous individuals, businesses, Op Shops & Service Clubs, who have donated, everyone who has shared our stories, all the Lock Keepers, all the Caravan Park Owners who gave us free accommodation or discounts. Safari H2O kayaks for supplying me with such a tough and stable vessel, Maggie for keeping me company on those long lonely days, but most of all, I want to thank Geoff who has done so much to make this trip a success. He's sbeen up before the sun, driving me here, there and everywhere, setting up the van, dismantling the van, buying all the groceries and washing my knickers. HIs wife Peggy needs a special mention too because they haven't seen each other for 9 weeks. Actually, between you and me, Peggy said it was the best 9 weeks of her life.
Okay folks, this is Penisoner Pete, signing off for the last time and thanks again!!!
Oh, by the way, the fundraising page will still be open for a little while longer so if anyone hasn't donated yet, its' not too late.
PENSIONER PETE xxx

30th of October

Tuesday 2nd Dec
I know it's a little bit early for another update but I thought I'd do another one before we tackle the lake.
Over the last 3 days, we paddled from Bow Hill to Wellington in near perfect conditions. I was very relieved about that, especially a section called Pellaring Reach, which knocked Georgia and I around back in 2010. It is a 10 Km strait that is notorious for it's strong winds and it's where captain Sturt got held up for 3 days when he travelled down the Murray in a whale boat. I doubt that Charlie did much of the rowing though....
We are currently staying at the @Wellington-Caravan-Park, where we received a very generous rate and we thank them very much for that!!
Since my last update, we have received a few very welcome donations including 1 EXTRA LARGE one from a very generous lady in Bright, so we are now up to $97,500!!!! WOW!!! Thank you everybody!!
Okay, that's about it for me. Hope you are all well and I look forward to sending you a final update in a few days time!!

28th October

Tuesday 2nd Dec
Howdy Pensioner Pete enthusiasts!! We have now done well over 2,000kms, so we are really getting to the pointy end!!
On Tuesday, last week, we had another shocker... We had 54kms to go, with one Lock to get through and it drizzled rais most of the way. We couldn't get an early start either because the Lock didn't open until 8am and we only started about 4kms before it. The other problem was that we had to be finished by 4.30pm. because electrical storms were predicted about that time. Because of that, I decided to only take 2 breaks. If that all wasn't enough, just after our lunch break, a very strong head windpicked up for about an hour and we got saturated. I was thinking about getting Geoff to pick us up but just as quickly as it started, the wind stopped. We were still cold and wet but at least we made Waikerie by 4pm.
When I did this trip 15 years ago with my youngest daughter Georgia, it was in this section where we made our worst mistake. On that trip, we took nearly every short cut we could find and there was one that cut through Banrock Station Winery. After that trip I wrote a journal about our experiences so I have included the section about that disastrous day -
"When we took our last short cut and broke my paddle, I should have taken that as an omen. We did have one more to take though, shortly after we started at Kingston on Murray,. Since we left Renmark we had started to use a new chart. It showed that shortly after Lock 3 there was a stream running off to the left called Banrock Creek. It started off as a tiny creek but according to the chart, widened into something quite large before spilling back into the Murray. It would have saved us about 3kms so we thought "why not?". At first it looked quite reasonable. There were the odd snag or two and a fewreeds but pretty soon the reeds started to get thicker and thicker. At times we had to pull our way through reeds because our paddles were useless. Each time we could see a clearing up ahead, we thought it was getting better. Eventually however, we could go no further. We figured it was a shame to go back because it had taken so long to get this far, so we got out and walked forward to see what was ahead. After about 500mts the creek came to a dirt road and there were two pipes leading through to what we assumed was the wider part of Banrock Creek.
We returned to the kayak and carried it to the wider section. We paddles for about 1km but once again the reeds got thicker and thicker. We were still convinced that we were only a stones throw from the Murray so we persevered. It still got thicker and thicker and sometimes it took 5 mins to move a couple of yards. This was starting to get a bit scary. Even if people came to look for us, they would never find us in these reeds. Finally we couldn't budge. We stood up in the kayak and could see that we only had about 30mts of reeds to get through, although by now we were pretty sure that the Murray wasn't on the other side. There was only one thing for it. Like Humphrey Bogart in the African Queen, I got out and pulled the Kayak through those snake infested reeds. The water was only about 18 inches deep and finally we were through to an open area of bush land. How good it felt to be out of those reeds.
There were some signs around to say that we were on Banrock Station and their wetlands. By the look there was no way of getting back to the river from here so we walked about 2-3kms to the winery reception area. The girl there was very nice about it although she insisted we couldn't possibly be on their wetlands. Eventually she rang their equally nice and friendly guide, Kate, who came down to sort out the problem. At first she was also adamant that we couldn't possibly be on their wetlands but when we described what we had done she knew exactly where we had ended up and said if we could get Helen to come and pick up our kayakm she would come with us and take us to a place where we could put the kayak back in the river. Unfortunately it was about 1/2km upstream from where we had originally taken the short cut. Kate was very good humoured about the whole situation but deep inside she mush have been thinking "what a couple of idiots".
Anyway after a couple of photographs with Kate and a promise to only buy Banrock Wines from then on, we started our trip again. It was now 1pm and we had lost over 4 hours. This meant we still had 48km to paddle and only about 7 hours of sunlight at the most. I was concerned whether we would make it or not because we were already tired from everything we had gone through, but we decided to give it a crack. We travelled the 48km with only one break and arrived in Waikerie at 7.20pm. There were times, particularly before our break, when we weren't travelling too well but after we had something to eat, we improved. When we arrived in Waikerie, we were feeling pretty good but once we had something to eat and relaxed, we almost collapsed."
When I went passed that short cut on Tuesday, I must admit, I was tempted to take it to see where I went wrong the first time, but I resisted the temptation.
We took a rest day on Wednesday because the weather was predicted to be awful. They weren’t wrong either with wind gusts up to 60kmph. It was great to be able to go to the bakery and have a coffee and a Pasty like normal people! I also went to the Op Shop and bought a great Jazz CD for 50 cents!! I gave her $1 and told her to keep the change. Gee I’m generous.
I must thank the @echo holiday Park at Waikerie. They provided us with a red site for 2 nights and we really appreciate it.
On Thursday, we got an early start. The wind had completely died down but it was cold and cloudy. Originally I had planned to only go as far as Cadell because the flow in the river had slowed and I had to go through Lock 2 as well which always slows things down. When we got there, we were met by the very friendly Andrew who was only in his 4th day on the job. By the time we got there, he had the gates open so we went straight in.
After lunch, the clouds started to disappear and the afternoon turned out to be perfect for kayaking so I decided to go on to Morgan. We ended up doing 63kms and arrived at 5pm.
Friday was a bit uneventful although a bit on the hot side so I’ll spare you the boring details and save a bit of ink except to tell you that we made it to Blanchetown.
I must thank Cassie at the @blanchetown Caravan Park who refused to take any money for our powered site when she heard about our fundraiser. She’s a lovely lady who is trying to rebuild their park after it got wiped out in the 2022 floods. When they. Finish, it should look fantastic because everything will be brand new!
On Saturday, we started the day just before Lock 1. Yay, no more Locks to deal with until our last day at the barrage. As we exited lock 1, there were about 100 pelicans waiting for us. I thought they were there to cheer us on but as we got near them, they all took off.
We passed another houseboat Sunday, motoring down the river. You can’t beat “Pensioner Power”!!
We booked in at Punyelroo Caravan Park for two night and they also refused to take payment for our powered site when they heard about the fundraiser. Honestly, the generosity of most of the caravan park owners has been AMAZING!!
We decided to take Sunday off because of bad weather, so went down to Victor Harbour for the day. Geoff’s brother lives there and so does mine!
We didn’t have a pleasant day Monday. We paddled 55km’s to Bow Hill and were accompanied by a bitterly cold sou’easter blowing in our faces for most of the day. Still, we made it and that should be the last 50 plus day that we have to do!!
We are starting to get close to the end now and if everything goes to plan, I think we might be finished on Sunday! That, of course, will depend on the weather but we’re keeping our fingers crossed.
That also means this should be our 2nd last update!! We are still $9,000 short of our target so don’t forget to share this and tell your friends about it!! Thanks for your company this week and I hope you are all well!

October 20th

Tuesday 2nd Dec
G’day loyal followers of Pensioner Pete’s Power Paddle for Cancer!! I’m pretty excited because we have cracked the $90,000 barrier and we are now over ¾ of the way to the mouth!!!
As I mentioned last week, my first night this week was spent camping out on the banks of the river near Lock 7. I’ve included a photo of my 5 star living conditions! I had wanted to get to the other side of the Lock that night but didn’t make it. I got held up at Lock 8, arriving there in the middle of their lunch break. I asked the Lock-keeper there if he could phone Lock 7 and tell them I’d be coming through at 8am, the next morning. I couldn’t do it myself because there was no reception. He said ‘No Worries!’.
I finally arrived about 2 k’s upstream from Lock 7 at about 6pm. Eleven hours on the river proved to be a huge day! I pitched the tent, ate my meal of @sirena Chicken Bolognaise and a corned beef roll and was in bed by 8.30pm, asleep by 8.31pm!
If you recall, the last time I slept out, I had trouble with the rock hard ground but this time I had bought a yoga mat from Kmart. I can’t say it was great, but it was better than nothing!!
The next morning I was up early and was on the river before 7.30am. When I got to the Lock, Simon was waiting for me and had the gate open, so I wasn’t held up at all. He was a lovely bloke who had only been working there a few months, but you could tell he really loved his job!
The weather was great, but my back was giving me a bit of grief after my night sleeping on the ground. I popped a few Panadol and Nurofen, which got me through my day! If someone from either of those two companies is reading this, maybe they could donate for the free plug I just gave them!!
We are staying at the Echo Holiday Parks, and Leanne & Craig gave us an extremely generous rate because of our fundraiser and we are very grateful to them! It’s a lovely park, with kangaroos wandering aimlessly around and it’s right on the river.
We started off on Wednesdsay at the Border Cliffs Customs House and the weather was perfect. I rang Lock 6 to let them know I would be coming through about 10am, but when I got there, they were just about to put a houseboat in that was coming in the other way, so I had to hang around for about 20 mins waiting for that. By the time we got through, the heat was ramping up, so we pulled over for one of our breaks and I got into my shorts. I think Maggie was struggling with the heat too, so I took her life vest off and put her in my section of the kayak so she lay on the cool floor between my legs. I also tried to keep to the shadiest parts of the river, but that can be difficult in the middle of the day. Anyway we got through it ok.
Remember in my last update I said that we were going to take a day off on Friday? Well I decided to make it Thursday, because it was going to be 38oC with strong winds!!
Old friends of ours from Adelaide – Lyn, Frank, Paula & Kym came up to see us so we all went out for dinner at the Paringa Hotel and guess what! We were the last to leave! Who says Pensioners’ don’t know how to have a good time?!?! Still, we did manage to make our bedtime by 9.30pm!
As I said, we took Thursday off because of the heat and strong winds. It was great to sleep in a bit…. We also got to know our very friendly neighbours at the caravan park in Renmark – Claire, Julie, Pat & John.
Friday started early and the weather was perfect for the first 10 mins, but then the wind started up. To make matters worse, there was an event on the river called the Tinny Rally. It involved about 80 aluminium boats going down the river creating a wake that made my day just a little more annoying. Still they did seem to be having a good time. Maggie had another one of her temperamental days. I never found out what was annoying her…
Shortly after starting on Saturday, I had to go through Lock 5. The Lock-keeper, Red, was a very friendly bloke. When I mentioned that I was doing a fundraiser he started asking about it and by the end of the day, he had made a generous donation. I was so chuffed!!!
On our first break, Maggie got bitten by a large red & black bull ant!! At first, she was so distressed that I thought I was going to have to ring Geoff to meet me at Lyriep and take her to the vets. Luckily, after about 20 mins she started to improve and after an hour, she was back to normal. It was a reasonably warm day so I gave her a dip in the river a couple of times and she seemed to enjoy it!
We got a very early start on Sunday at 6.30am from Berri. I wantedto make sure I wouldn’t be late for Lock 4’s first opening, because the forecast was for 36oC!! As it turned out, we got there about 20 mons too early so we got out to stretch our legs. We made pretty good time getting to @Loxton Caravan Park and when the owner heard about our fundraiser, he gave us the site for free!! Thanks very much Sam, we really appreciate it.
By the way, I nearly forgot…. The other day, we lost the top off our air vent on the caravan, in a strong wind storm!! Luckily, Geoff noticed the lid lying on the ground so we had a discussion about who should get up on the roof to fix it…. Geoff decided it should be me… There’s a photo (or 2…) of me almost falling off when I was trying to get down!! Instead of trying to help me, Geoff decided it would be better to get a photo of it!! (**Hayley has endorsed Geoffs’ decision)!!
Today went smoothly enough, albeit very hot… We are staying in Kingston tonight and tomorrow it’s off to Waikerie.
South Australia, take a bow!! On the Murray, there are supposed to be distance signs every 2 kms. Whilst we were on the NSW/VIC side we were lucky to get 25% of them and some of those were in such poor condition, they were illegible. Since we crossed the border into S.A, every distance sign has been there. It makes it so much easier to follow the maps we are using because they all have distance marked.
That’s about it for the week.. So please keep sharing the updates!! We’ve still got $10,000 to go before we hit our target. I hope you’re all well and thanks for following us!!
P.S I nearly forgot!!! There’s a photo of a tree called “The Tree of Knowledge” at Loxton. All the dates on it show the different flood levels over the years… Check out the 1956 flood!!!!

October 13 Update

Tuesday 14th Oct
Hi Folks, I know I'm a day early for this update but I'll be camping solo on the banks of the river today (Monday), so it could be difficult to get reception. By the way, on that subject, I know some of you are surprised at how "au fait" I've become with Facebook and the Interweb. Well I should reveal my secret. I actually write the update out with pen and paper, take a photo of it and then send it to my daughter Hayley, and she somehow sends it to you all! ** The bills in the mail Dad!! lol
Anyway, now for the week just gone. We spent the first 3 days getting from Wemen to Mildura. They were all fairly uneventful except that the weather was a bit up and down. Mostly down... Usually, the days would start well but before too long, the wind would pick up. On the bright side, we stayed at the BIG4 Holiday Parks Red Cliffs for 2 nights, free of charge, and we thank them for their generosity! Red Cliffs is a lovely town and their pride and joy is "Big Lizzie", a monstrous tractor which used to be used for carting wood. I've included a couple of photographs of her and some of her statistics. You'll also notice there's a photo of a houseboat. The reason I took it is that when I first saw it motoring down the river, it was about 1/2 km ahead of me and that photo was taken when I passed it! Sorry, just showing off....
Mildura is also a lovely town with many stately homes, well kept gardens and wide streets. Once again, we were blessed with free accommodation from the @NRMA Riverside Tourist Park and we are very grateful!
I took us 2 days to get from Mildura to Wentworth with the bulk of it being on the 2nd day. Just after leaving the Mildura boat ramp I had to go through Lock 11 where the friendly Lock-keeper, Matt gave me a great bit of news. There's a lot of water coming down the Darling River, so the Wentworth Weir is letting through over 17,000 ML per day at the moment so that should help us a bit.
I did have one very scary moment on that day (Friday). We had some very stron head winds and choppy water when we hit a submerged log which almost tipped us over, but the Safari H2O did a good job and stayed upright.
Hayley came up from Melbourne for the night and we all had hamburgers in the park for dinner. We did the rounds in the caravan park and got a few donations for which we are very greatful!
Just before we got to Wentworth, I rang Danny at Lock 10 and he had the gates open for me when I came through. As with all the Lock-keepers, he was a very friendly bloke! We stayed in Wentworth for the night, thanks to the generosity of Ana & Tony Wanderers Crossing River Retreat , who gave us a powered site free of charge! Thanks guys!!
Today (Sunday) was always going to be a toughy. We wanted to get to Lock 9 which was 60kms away but the tricky part was that we had to get there by 4.30pm to get through the lock. We got a great start at 7am and the river seemed to be running okay. We were averaging 8kmph bythe time we stopped for our second break, but just after we got going again, the wind picked up and kept blowing most of the afternoon. It knocked our times around so I decided not to have a third break. Just as well because we arrived at the lock at 4.20pm! We were both cactus by the time we got there. WE'd paddled for 4hrs 20mins straight under awful conditions! The next two days won't be much better either so I've decided to reward ourselves with a day off on Friday. WHACKOTHE DIDLIO!!
Okay folks, as I said at the beginning, I'm camping out tomorrow so I'd better get ready for that! Hope you're all well and please keep sharing the updates!!

October 7 Update

Friday 10th Oct
OK folks, It’s time for another update from Maggie May, Geriatric Geoff and Pensioner Pete!
We had a very easy day on Tuesday. We didn’t hit the water until about 10.30am and only had to paddle 22kms’ from Wood Wood to Tooleybuc. Because we finished so early we investigated some good pick up points for tomorrow. I’m not looking forward to it. It’s going to be very windy and also I have to tackle a section called the “Bitch and Pups”. Apparently it can be a bit hairy.
Oh, I nearly forgot! Geoff wanted to go to Kmart before we left this morning, but he wouldn’t tell me what for…. When he came back, I realised why…. He’d bought a hair dryer!!! God knows why…. He’s hardly got enough hair to worry about. He claims it’s for his beard. I just thought you all should know the type of bloke I’m travelling with!!
Wednesday turned out to be a great day! We made fantastic time and the water was great. The wind that was forecast, didn’t start until about 15 minutes before I finished. I was nervous and excited about tackling the “Bitch and Pups” section but it ended up being a pleasant anti-climax. Because of all the extra water coming down the river, the “Pups” were completely submerged and we were able to paddle right over them without any trouble.
As nice as Wednesday was, Thursday was just as bad. We had 10% tail wind and 90% head wind with gusts up to 50kph. Maggie wasn’t too happy about it and I don’t blame her. At least we only had to do 34kms!
Friday wasn’t a bad day. A bit of wind but nothing like the day before. Passed the confluence of the Murrumbidgee River but it didn’t seem to increase the flow at all. I was very lucky when Geoff picked us up. I had put my map and phone on the roof of the car when I had taken off my jacket and forgot about them. We drove about 3kms on the highway and I noticed something fly through the air in my rear view mirror. I realised it was my map but then remembered I had also left my phone on the roof. I went back to get the map and when I got back into the car, the phone was still on the roof! See, sometimes it pays to drive like an old pensioner!!!
Saturday was a beautiful day, but I should have taken more water. We paddled 64kms and I ran out about 2.5 hrs before we finished. I was getting very dehydrated but luckily I saw some campers on the side of the river about 1.2 hr beforeI finished and they gave me an icy cold bottle. It was delicious!
Nature can be so cruel. I saw a Whistling Kite trying to take a baby duckling away from its mother. She was doing a good job of protecting her brood and I hope she managed to succeed. I tried to get close so she could get them away but I think she thought I was a threat as well, so she kept swimming away from me.
I also saw my first snake swimming across the river! It just looked like a long stick but its head was slightly raised. The weather is starting to warm up so I’m going to have to keep a close eye out for them, on land and in the water.
At about 11.05am, we made it to our 1/2 way point, 1177 kms!! It’s all down hill from here. Actually I suppose it is all down hill from here, otherwise the river wouldn’t flow at all, would it! Just as we passed that special milestone we went passed a marshy area that was teeming with big bullfrogs and they were all croaking! It felt like they were cheering us on, calling out “BRAVO, WELL DONE!, WAY TO GO PENSIONER PETE AND MAGGIE MAY!!”
I chickened out on Sunday because it was forecast to get to 35oC with very strong winds, so I just paddled 14kms around Buinbang Island. Leaving from Robinvale and finishing in Robinvale. I’ve got some big days ahead so it was good to rest the old pensioner’s body!
I left pretty early on Monday because I had to get through the loch at Euston. I rang the very likeable loch master, Phil, before I bother there so he had the gates already open for me when I arrived. I asked him if he would mind me mentioning his name on our updates. He said “Sure, but don’t forget to tell them how good looking I am!”. If you every bump into him, I’ll let you be the judge! It was cloudy all day and it rained lightly for a couple of hours but at least there was no wind.
Ok folks, that’s about it for another week!! I hope you are all well and don’t forget to spread the word! I hate harping on, but we want more!!!

September 30 Update

Thursday 2nd Oct
Hi Everyone, It's time for another update from Pensioner Pete!! We're coming into our 5th week today and things are going okay. We've now paddled over 1,000kms!!
We left Torrumberry Weir Tuesday last week and what a great day it was. Sunny but not too hot and no wind. We started at 7.15am and finished at 5pm. As I mentioned last week it was too difficult for Geoff to pick me up so Maggie & I camped on the side of the river. My $25 tent from Big W was great and I christened my portable toilet chair! The only downside was the ground was like concrete , so I woke up very sore in the morning.
The next day we got a very early start at 6.45am and arrived at Barham at 1.15pm. Over the two days we had paddle 104kms!! By the end of it, I was very sore and had decided to take Friday off to give my body a rest. They were also predicting very strong winds for that day as well, so that convinced me that it was a good idea.
On Thursday we paddled a very pleasant 38km's from Barham to Murrabit. The best part was that we were nearly paddling at 8kmph and my body wasn't aching at all. Hayley came up from Melbourne and we went out for dinner at the CluBarham RSL. For a town with a population of 1500 people, it was very impressive.
At last Friday was here and I really enjoyed the time off. We moved camp and travelled to Swall Hill where the BIG4 Holiday Parks (Riverside)generously offered us 2 free nights on a powered site. To make it even better, they placed us right on the river! I was also paid a visit from my Grandson, who had driven all the way from Alpha, QLD!
On Saturday we got a nice early start at 7.45am from Murrabit Bridge. It was cloudy at first but eventually turned into a beautiful day with no wind and the water they had released upstream had finally caught up with us. We were travelling at 8kmph and it felt easier on my body. For some reason my navigator (Maggie) started whining about 2 hours before the end. I pulled over to let her go to the toilet but she still kept crying. Maybe she's just temperamental?
Originally we were going to do the next 60 km's over 2 days but last night I decided to do it in one because there's going to be some lousy weather later in the week. Better to make hay while the sun is shining! It was a beautiful day once again and we were still averaging about 8kmph. The down side of the day was that our little heater died on us last night. Geoff searched all over Swan Hill today for one but there are absolutely none in this town for sale. On a brighter note, we have now paddled over the 1,000 kms!! WOOOHHHOOOO!!
Only did 32 km's today (Monday) to Wood Wood because we have a radio interview this afternoon with 3SH. Actually, speaking of radio, I did an interview with the ABC in Sydney last Monday and when I camped on the side of the river the following night, I had a visit from a fellow who had been listening to it on his radio. Apparently I had paddled passed his campsite, further up the river, and when he saw Maggie in the Kayak he decided to try and find me. When he first rocked up he jumped out of his car, pointed at Maggie and said "That's Maggie May, isn't it?". Anyway, he turned out to be a nice bloke and we had a chat for a while.
Folks, that's about it for this week. Our total is still creeping up, but you know me, I'm itching for it to get to $100k, so please keep spreading the word!! If you haven't donated already, feel free to click on the 'sign up' button and that will take you to our donation page!
I hope you are all well!!

Time for Another update from Pensioner Pete!!

Tuesday 23rd Sep
Everything is still going as planned. When we left Tocumwal we only had about 30k's to get to Morgan's Beach Caravan Park. There's no town there at all and there's no real road down to the river, just some very rough tracks and because it had rained all the day before, there were lots of boggy sections. It took a while for Geoff and I to find each other, but we finally did and decided to leave the kayak there and in the morning we would just walk to the river.
The next day was another biggy, paddling 64km's to Picnic Point. It was a beautiful day, no wind and quite sunny. Really pleased with our time still. We seem to be averaging just a sidgen under 8kmph. We're staying at Barwah for the next 3 nights. The trip from Pelican Point to Barmah was fantastic. It was only 28km's, the weather was perfect and this stretch called "The narrows" is beautiful. Saw my 1st Spoonbills today! There were about 10 of them roosting on a dead tree in the middle of the river.
I know my luck couldn't hold out for ever with the weather. On Saturday I had to paddle 50kms to Echuca and it wasn't much fun. For about 5%, we had no wind, 15% a tail wind and 80% a head wind. No fun at all. We had only been going for about an hour and Maggie started acting really strange. At first she was whining but then she started getting very fidgety and even tried to get on the bow of the kayak! I couldn't work it out because I knew she had been fed, she'd had a drink and she'd done a wee. Then it clicked... maybe she wants a poo.... I paddled to the shore and she didn't even wait for me to get out of the kayak first. She jumped out and did her business before I even got ashore. After that, she was good as gold.
Okay, I know I'm going to have to be more diligent when it comes to Maggies bodily functions because we had another issue on Sunday. We hadn't long left Echuca when Maggie started crying and I was sure it was the cold head wind. Eventually she got very erratic and fumped into the river! She had her life vest and lead on, so I was able to pull her in. She was OK, but very wet and cold, so we went into shore. When I got out of the kayak, I realized she had pooed in her bed... What a great start!
Anyway, the wind kept blowing until finally it blew my hat off and I had to go back and retieve it. By the time I got to it, it was about 2 feet under the water, so I got drenched fishing it out. If that wasn't enough, about an hour later, a skier went flying passed me and sprayed us with his ski on purpose. By this stage, I was starting to feel a bit dejected and the wind kept blowing. This was my worst day so far. When I finally finished, Geoff picked us up at a spot on the river that was marked in my map book. It was called a road but really it was hardly a track! Pot holes everywhere but Geoff and the little Hyundai i30 managed to get through.
Monday started off beautiful but the wind picked up after 10 mins and kept blowing all day. Some gusts were so strong they pushed me backwards while I was paddling. I was glad when it was over! I had planned to go through the Torrummbarry Weir Loch but the lockmaster said there wasn't enough water for us to do that so we had to pull the kayak out at the boat ramp. Good news though. He also told us they were releasing water from upstream and it should catch up to me in 4-5 days. Yahoo!!
We are staying at the Torrummbarry Weir Holiday Park and they have generously provided us with a nights accommodation for Free!
Tomorrow (Tuesday), I'm going to have to camp on the side of the river because there's nowhere for Geoff to pick me up, so I'll let you all know how that went, next week!
Now I got into trouble last week because I forgot to mention that my daughter, Hayley and her son Hunter had come up to see us at Yarrawonga, so I hope this belated entry is enough to appease them! On that subject, Geoff's daughter, Chenoa and her son Harry, came up while we were at Barmah!
Ok folks, that's about it for this update. Hope you are all well and don't forget to share this with everyone and help raise our donations!!

September 17 Update

Monday 22nd Sep
An update from Pensioner Pete -
We’ve now entered our 3rd week on the river and we’re not doing too bad at all. So far we have paddled over 500 kilometres! Since my last update, we’ve had some good days and some bad days.
When we left the weir it soon became obvious that it was going to be very different from when we did this trip 15 years ago. There is no where near as much water in the river this time. We bottomed out a few times, got sideways on a few logs got slammed against a fallen tree and ended up going backwards once. Little bit dangerous…. Little bit scary…. But very exciting!
Our trip from Howlong to Corowa wa pretty uneventful although being 45ks in a slow moving river, it was our biggest day so far. The next day I had planned a big day to get to Bundalong and everything was going fine until the river ran out of water. We grounded the kayak about 30 times and I had to get out about 6 or 7 times to get going again. It was so hard that eventually I gave up and rang Geoff to come and pick me up and I would have to finish it off the next day. The only highlight of the trip was when I came across a young couple camping on the side of the river. The girl didn’t notice me at first but it became obvious that she didn’t have a stitch of clothing on…. When she finally realised I was there, she made a mad dash back to the campsite and hid under a blanket.
The next day I finished that section and luckily the river improved shortly after starting. The only setback was when my navigator, Maggie, got us lost and we wasted about 20 minutes. All we had to do the next day was get through Lake Mulwala. The weather was perfect and the scenery was beautiful. On Monday, this week, it was going to be our biggest test! It was 70kms to Cobram and I was sure I wouldn’t be able to get that far, so I teed Geoff up to pick up up at a place about 15kms before. I can’t explain it, but by midday we were making such good time that I decided to try and make it all of the way to Cobram. The river wasn’t really flowing all that well but we were travelling at about 8kmph.
Our @Safari H20 Kayak was performing better than I had ever hoped. We made it in about 10 1/2 hours which included 3 x 20 min breaks. At 70kms it was by far our longest day so far. Actually it was really 73 kms because Maggie got us lost again!! Yesterday, Tuesday 16 Sept, by comparison, was a cruise 30km’s to Tocumwal. I really need to thank the Howlong Caravan Park, the Yarrawonga Holiday Park and the Tocumwal Tourist Park for giving us free nights accommodation to help us on our journey.
Once again, thank you to everyone who has donated so far and please don’t forget to share this post so that we can spread the word!!

September 7th update

Monday 22nd Sep
Yahoo! We've made it to the Hume Weir, and in 5 days too!! When I started the trip, I thought I'd be satisfied with 7, happy with 6 and cock-a-hoop with 5 days to the Weir!!
Days 2 and 3 were exciting. The river was still flowing at a good speed and I had about 4-5 rapids to contend with. Luckily, I was able to view the ones at Jingellic the night before from the bridge, so I was able to see the best way to handle it. Just as well, because if I hadn't, I probably would have approached it from the wrong side and ended up in the trees.
Days 4 and 5 were a bit more mundane because they were mainly spent on Lake Hume. It was also really hard yakka because there was no flow and getting lost for about ½ an hour didn't help either.
The Safari H2O is performing well and our Hyundai is doing a great job of towing our little caravan thanks to the suspension work done by JRB Auto - Joel Beatson.
Our 2nd - 4th nights were spent at the Walwa Riverside Caravan Park. What a great place, where the owners, Heidi & Kev were delightful. When they heard about our fundraiser, they refused to take any money from us for our campsite to help us on our journey.
The other little bit of excitement that we didn't need, came when Geoff realised, we were getting low on petrol, and there was nowhere to fill until he got to Tallangatta. When he finally got to a service station, the car took 48l in a 50l tank.... That's cutting it fine.
Once again, thank you to everyone who has donated so far and please keep spreading the word!! We've already raised over $80,000 for the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre, but I'm itching to get to $100,000!!!

September 3rd Update

Monday 22nd Sep
Wow! What a first day! We arrived at Bringenbrong Bridge yesterday morning to be greeted by our cheer squad. It was quite humbling really. Maggie and I hit the water at 9:15 and it couldn’t have gone better. Our Safari H2O two seater was so comfortable and we covered the first 15 kilometres to Towong in 1 1/2 hours. For those of you who are mathematically challenged, that works out to 10 kilometres per hour. We finished the day at Tintaldra at 2:25 pm having a 30 minute break in the middle so we covered 45 kilometres in 4 hours and 40 minutes of paddling time. The scenery was magnificent and we were entertained by a flight of pelicans, a mob of kangaroos and lots of playful swallows.
Thanks for reading this and I hope to send an update in a few days.

Peter is off and paddling!

Monday 22nd Sep
Peter and Maggie have officially started on their epic paddle and are attracting attention far and wide! 
Please click on the following link to read Pete's story on the ABC online news. 

NEW Major Sponsor!

Monday 18th Aug
Peter has a NEW sponsor! A huge shout out to the Bright Hospital Op Shop Inc. for donating $20,000 to Pete's Paddle! 

Peter and Maggie are in the Border Mail!

Wednesday 9th Jul
Head to https://bit.ly/44zKqBn to read more about Peter and his epic fundraiser! 

Front Page News!

Wednesday 18th Jun

🎉 Big news for Peter! After appearing on TV, he's now made the front page of the Alpine Observer and Myrtleford Times! 📰👏

Don’t get the paper? No worries – you can read the story online! 💻📲

 - Peter's paddle for a purpose



Pensioner Pete on 7 News

Monday 16th Jun
📺 In case you missed the news story on Pensioner Pete's Power Paddle for Cancer, head to the following link and hear why Peter is paddling 8.32 minutes in.

📺Watch the news story:
https://7plus.com.au/7news-border?episode-id=7ALB25-118&autoplay=true

Major Sponsor!

Wednesday 28th May
Toll Group is proud to support Peter on his incredible journey, making a meaningful impact to the Albury/Wodonga & surrounding communities.  Good Luck Peter!

Maggie May - Co Paddler

Tuesday 6th May

What a sweet and beautiful girl!

Tuesday 6th May

My favourite photo of Helen & myself. xx

Tuesday 6th May

Who's our Queen?

Tuesday 6th May
This photo was taken on Helen's 69th Birthday (24 January) at the Albury Base Hospital, waiting to be transferred to the Albury Cancer Centre.

Thank you to my Sponsors

$20k

Toll Transport Pty Ltd

Toll Group is proud to support Peter on his incredible journey, making a meaningful impact to the Albury/Wodonga & surrounding communities. Good Luck Peter!

$20k

Bright Hospital Op Shop

$6.02k

Dawn Christian

Have enjoyed watching your progress!!

$5k

Myrtleford Hospital Op Shop

$2.52k

Joe, Michelle, Amber, Jacob And Connor X

We know you've put your heart and soul into this and we're so proud of everything that you've achieved. Congratulations on reaching the finish line!

$2.52k

Shayne Liddell

Just keep paddling Peter. You are an inspiration. Your wonderful wife would be proud of you. I hope to meet you on your journey. Maybe even have s short paddle.

$2k

Rotary Club Of Bright

$1.88k

Dawn Christian

$1.02k

Mary And Jim Kondarios

We are privileged to know such a wonderful couple. Missing Helens smile. Go Pete 🚣

$1.02k

Barbara Romanowski

Helen is beaming over your commitment and love to see this through. Pete you’re a star. I’ll have you make super hero capes for Maggie and you. 😊

$1.02k

The Rowdy Nine

For Helen

$1.02k

Krystina Johnson

So proud of you. Xx

$1.02k

Georgia Taylor

Both you and mum are absolutely unforgettable! I love you so much, power the pensioner!

$1,000

Rotary Club Of Mount Beauty

$1,000

Bright Lions Club

$1,000

Commercial Club Albury

$1,000

Csc Colleague Match

CSC Colleague Match

$996

Pip

So sorry about Tony. You're doing an amazing thing Peter. We are so proud of you. Safe travels! xoxoxo

$545

Stroud Shop

$515

Wei Been Aw

All the best.

$515

Ray And Dale Turner

Our thoughts to you and Helen PS. We hope you catch a fish !!!

$515

Julie Richardson

Good luck Pete.

$515

Peggy Barton

In loving memory of our brave, kind & selfless friend Helen, never giving in and always thinking of others.

$515

Jamie Loutides

I only met Helen twice but she was a lovely gentle soul who will always be in the memory of her loving family and friends. What a loving legacy you have left in her memory Peter. Sincere love and best wishes to you and all the family. Xxx Jamie Loutides

$515

Club Savoy

$515

Anonymous

$500

Bright Tennis Club

As a member of the Bright Tennis Club for over 28 years, having first joined the club with Helen , Joseph, Billy, Haley and Georgia in 1997 the Bright Tennis Club would like to congratulate you on this amazing achievement. Look forward to seeing you exchange your paddle for a racquet in the near future! Well done Peter.

$500

Corryong Lions Club

$500

Myrtleford Lions Club

$500

Star Hotel

For Helen

$460

Star Hotel Patrons

For Helen

$440

Star Hotel Patrons

For Helen

$435

Carolinna Lee And Simon Kelley

All the best to you and Maggie May. A tremendous effort for a great cause and an amazing tribute to Helen. You are an Alpine Valleys Legend.

$400

Alpine Womens Group

$315

Robin Taylor

Bloody hell Pete your a legend Meet you at the mouth

$315

Dean And Hannah

Such an an amazing adventure Pete and Maggie May. We’re so disappointed we never had the chance to know Helen, she was obviously an incredible lady.

$315

Helen Smith

Go Peter! We're all cheering you on and you know Helen will be cheering the loudest and right beside you all the way ♡

$300

Jrb Automotive And Offroad

For Helen

$300

Geelong Fx-hz Holden Car Club Inc

$300

Greg Donald

$295

Nadia Neil

So proud of you Uncle Peter.

$263.75

Bladey

Great cause - go well!

$263.75

Martin Family

Go Pete

$263.75

Alliance Dental Group Vic

$263.75

Outdoor Travel~ Lucie Lolicato

You are an inspiration Pete - I am happy to contribute to such a worthwhile charity - good luck for the last leg of your journey xx

$263.75

Bree And Tim Fernandez

For my Aunty Helen, the kindest most beautiful soul. Proud of you Uncle Pete! Xxx

$263.75

Barnaby Webb

A wonderful cause.

$257.75

Billy Dixon

Captain crumpet 👨‍✈️of the 7 seas, first mate Maggie May and. Deck-hand Geoff.. Mum would be so proud of you Maggie……… oh and you too Dad. This is a beautiful honour for Mum. Love Billy and Kelly ⚓️🏴‍☠️

$257.75

Gail Bennett

What an absolute gem of a man you have made everyone so proud I can see her smiling face every time I think of you Well done my friend 🙏❤️

$250.35

Kindy Patch Narara

The community of Narara Kindy Patch can't wait to see you achieve your tremendous achievement!

$250

Rotary Club Of Myrtleford

$250

Chiltern Lions Club

$250

Rutherglen Lodge No. 188

$250

Sophia Richardson

LOVE YOU UNCLE PETER xxxx Soph & Wez

$215

Hayley Dixon (favourite Daughter)

Proud of you Dad!

$211

Glenda Dixon

Proud of you Paddler Pete! 👍 Helen would be delighted ♥️

$211

Linda And Terry Marshall

Sending you good wishes , will be thinking of you all the way

$211

Lyn&frank Milburn

On ya Pete - we’re with you all the way

$211

Emily Dixon

Go you good thing! Wishing you all the best Uncle Pete. You're amazing xx

$211

Verona Sullivan

Our best wishes for you and Maggie May on your river journey

$211

Audrey And Andy

Halfway!!! A bloody fantasy effort. Keep up the posts, really enjoying them.

$211

Fatma Khoder

Wishing you all the best! 🙂 Hope you hit the goal and achieve even more!

$211

Audrey And Andy

Congratulations!!! Well done Pete, Maggie & Geoff.

$211

Peter Buckthorpe

you look after yourself thanks Peter

$211

Maddy, Cleo And Baby

All of love Unlce Pete - You are an inspiration and so was Aunty Helen. She would be so proud of you.

$211

Fabrice Kwigize

$211

Bright Rod & Kustom Club .

$211

Roger Dixon

What a wonderful way to honour the life of Helen. I wish you every success in this challenging endeavour Peter

$211

Carleen Bisinella

$208.60

Paula& Kym Tilgals

You are amazing Peter. I'm sure Helen will be with you cheering you on your way. Safe journey Peter and Maggie. Ps ( no detours this time😂)

$206.20

Bright Cwa

Paddle well x

$200

Pauline Edwards

$200

Jan Walbrook

Go Pete and Geoff. Garry and I are cheering for you.

$200

Goldfield Holiday Units

Well done Peter. Looking forward to seeing your progress

$200

Toni & Erwin

Wishing you and Maggie all the very best in your quest raising funds for this important cause. Helen would be so proud!

$165

Star Hotel Patrons

For Helen

$158.25

Tony Earley

Best of luck for the big paddle. Helen would be so proud of you!!

$158.25

Isabella Richardson

Go Uncle Peter!!! Helen would be so proud. Love you, from Bella and Millie xoxo

$158.25

Adolf May

All the best Peter will be cheering you on. X

$158.25

Renae Spicer And Family

Helen always wore a smile no matter the circumstances, and was such a lovely and kind woman. The bright nursing team can’t wait to cheer you on from the sidelines Peter, good luck! xx

$150

Cafe Borellas

Best wishes for a safe trip.

$150

Hunter Dixon

Love you Pooba❤️

$140

Ando & The Gang

For Helen

$121.52

Greg Green

$110.72

Don And Ev Rupp

What a beautiful thing you are doing, Pete. We wish you safe travels . Helen was a delightful person, as are you. We hope you achieve your goals and perhaps we may see you somewhere along the way. God Bless. Xxx

$106.12

Audrey

Trivia winners!!

$106.12

Russell Brown

Hey Hayley, It’s devastating that you have had to endure the loss of your mum, taken way too early from you all. That task at hand for your dad is courageous and I wish him every success in his endeavours, and more importantly, the community and research your raising awareness and support for. Best wishes, Russell & family x x

$106.12

Andrew Pooley

Regional towns need more funding for better health facilities. Keep paddling Peter!

$106.12

Laura Harris

Incredible work Peter! What an amazing way to honour Helen. Made my day to hear that you are doing this! Happy paddling :)

$106.12

Jane And Terry Kerby

$106.12

H Ken Annie Apples Pronk Appleby

All the beat Pete and Maggie on your journey love always H Ken Annie and Apples xxxx

$106.12

Milena Mcdonald

Beautiful Helen 🌸

$106.12

Russell Archbold

Great work Pete. Good on you mate!

$106.12

Lisa Kazazes

$106.12

Michael & Carolyn Jinnette

Well Done Pete , So Proud of what you have achieved and done 🎉

$106.12

Audrey Mitchell

Good luck Pete. For Helen xxoo

$106.12

Janette Jones

I always enjoyed having a chat with Helen at woolies, and once we sat next to each other at the cancer centre whilst we were having our treatment.

$106.12

Greg Green

Good luck Pete your going to need it

$106.12

Patsy Hunt

$106.12

Lyndall Newton

$106.12

Paul Carmichael

Go big Pete.

$106.12

Val Pollard

Well done Peter. So very proud of you. What a go getter.

$106.12

Clive Sacher

best of luck!

$106.12

Sarah Clapperton

Go Pete! Helen would be so proud, miss her lovely smile around ❤️

$106.12

Michael Enright

Good on you Peter and the best of luck. I'm sure Helen would of been very proud. Much Love Michael

$106.12

Helen Carlson

Helen would be so proud of all you are doing to improve the lives of people affected by cancer. A wonderful way of honouring her memory.

$106.12

Ann Smith

All the best for a great paddle, in memory of H.

$106.12

Donna Mckellar

Wishing you a successful trip down the Murray for a wonderful cause. We have a miniature poodle whom we adore and our first grandchild is Maggie.

$106.12

Toni & Chris O’brien

$106.12

Loz Loz

$106.12

Barb & Trev

Great job pete

$106.12

Cathie & Jason

You are an inspiration Pete, our very best wishes 💪

$106.12

Clair Madden

Wish you well in your adventure Pete - Clair @ Toll, Perth

$106.12

Marion Harrison

❤️❤️❤️

$106.12

June Kent

Go Pete, Helen and kids would be so proud of you.

$106.12

Miranda Newcomb

You’re such an amazing man doing an amazing thing

$106.12

J Wierzbicki

Safe travels. It’s a wonderful thing that you do for cancer in memory of your beloved wife.

$106.12

Anne Mcleod

$106.12

Anonymous

Great idea, Peter. All the best for the trip.

$106.12

Cathy Jeffery

Well done Pete, what an amazing journey and an incredible tribute to Helen.

$106.12

Colin Cornish

Onya Mate. and woof bark Good Boy

$106.12

Mohamed Wazze

Keep strong and dont give up.

$106.12

Wanda & John

What a great thing to do Peter, Good luck on this amazing adventure that you and Maggie are embarking on.

$106.12

Rachel Murphy

For all the times you and Helen put up with our teenage antics. Good luck Peter, Maggie and Geoff.

$106.12

Amy Niesler

Uppa captain crumpet!!!

$106.12

Nadia

So amazing uncle Pete, aunty Helen will be with you all the way. Love Nadia, Rick & the kids xxx

$106.12

Collette Sheridan

Thinking of you at this sad time. So brave of you to undertake this awesome trip. Good luck. With sympathy, prayers and love, Collette Sheridan - Brisbane GP.

$106.12

Roger Carlson

You're a legend and we're proud of all you have accomplished.

$106.12

Tom And Tess

Your a legend, mate 😃

$106.12

Douglas

Good luck Pete. Nice to meet you at Echo Renmark. I’m sorry for your loss, I had breast cancer 4 years ago and understand the importance of supportive services

$106.12

Nadia Neil

Go uncle Pete your almost at the finish line so proud of you! Love the Neil family xx

$106.12

Sue And Arno Van Winden

You're legend Peter! Best wishes.

$106.12

Bree Fernandez

An extra top up for the push to the end. So proud of you Uncle Peter and I know Aunty Helen would be cheering you on as you approach that finish line. What an incredible accomplishment. All my love x

$106.12

Oi-len Hew

Mr Dixon, I am so sorry for the loss of your Helen. What an amazing thing you are doing now to honour her memory. Wishing you and Maggie May a safe journey. All the best.

$106.12

Carol Hankinson

$106.12

John And Annie Robinson

Well done Peter - John & Annie

$106.12

Sherry Rodgers

$106.12

Veronica Mills-mateer

$106.12

Anonymous

$106.12

Ron & Regina Malafiej

Good Luck Peter!

$106.12

Pamela Smith

Congratulations Pete a wonderful cause. Thankyou to all the medical specialists and staff who provide support to all of us when needed.

$106.12

Rodney Taylor

$106.12

Stuart And Belinda

Inspirational, Peter!

$106.12

Tracy Carey

Peter congratulations on your amazing 2500 km paddle. I just read the article in the local and it brought tears to my eyes. You and your team should be so proud of yourselves.

$106.12

Heather Felis And Family In Adelaide 💝

Congrats and Well Done Pete. So so proud of your wonderful achievements on this magnificent journey you have taken on in remembrance of your beautiful Helen and our dear dear friend gone too soon. Lots of love from Heather Felis and family in Adelaide. 🥰💜🩵❤️💝

$103.72

Dan And Lou

Great effort, let us know when you’re heading for Murray Bridge. Take care

$100

Adele Limon

Related to Toni Limon

$100

Lenore Harris

$100

Simon L

What a mighty effort Pete, nice to talk to you briefly in Swan Hill. We look forward to hearing about your progress. From Simon, Kylie, Timothy, Luke & Samuel.

$100

Lawrie And Jess

For Helen

$100

Allie Pollard

$100

Hele L’huillier

What a lovely fundraising venture for a great cause in memory of Helen. Thankyou to the Alpine Observer for printing this moving, front page article. Safe paddling, Peter.

$100

Dipan Adhikary

Great work !!!!!

$100

Olga Campbell-wood

Go Pete and Maggie!

$100

Savoy Club Patrons

For Helen

$100

Jane White

Enjoy your journey

$95

Tony Richardson

Had a better month this month.

$85.48

Johanna Goldshmid

Best wishes to you and Maggie on your next venture! Xo

$80.25

Wayne Reade - Toll

$80.25

Liz W

Wishing Peter all the best with the power paddle! Giving our love to Georgia and the family! She's a killer cook and we love her goodies!

$80.25

Lisa Buckley

A fabulous thing to do. Helen would be proud. Sending you a big hug. Go Pete !!!!

$80.25

Mike Burston

Safe paddling

$80.25

Janice Kool

$80.25

Kerri

You have done an amazing job Peter

$78.45

Lucinda Douglass

Goodluck. What a beautiful way to remember, grieve and help change the future. Thankyou!

$75

Anthony Omogrosso

From the Omogrosso family xx

$74.10

Cathy Hewett

We all loved your Helen..she'd be looking down so proudly at you Pete

$64.67

Tanya Quinnell

Cheering you on Pete, best of luck

$64.67

Chenoa And Family

$60

Cheryl Shuey

For Helen

$60

Zoe And Shawn Barton

Well done Pete. Helen would be so proud of you and all your supporters. With and without fur ☺️.

$55.27

Leanne Powell

Magnificent effort to conquer the Murray river!! All that blood sweat and tears hasn't gone unnoticed Peter, your a champion!

$54.12

Ann Shillabeer

Truly inspirational!

$54.12

Catherine Shaw

You are doing amazing things Peter Dixon. ❤️From Georgia"s work buddy

$54.12

Red Saegenschnitter

Inspirational, I wish i knew your story before you went through the lock. All the best Pete!!!!

$54.12

Bird Family

Best of luck!

$54.12

Leanne Goodwin

Well done Pete an awesome cause Sorry for your loss

$54.12

Arun Anebajagane

Nice one Peter! Great spirit.

$54.12

Regina Vissers

Go Pete!

$54.12

Lee & Chris

$54.12

Eric Liaw

Hi Hayley, I resonate with your situation and fully supportive of what your dad is doing. I worked in Tamworth for many years and can relate to the community rallying behind your dad's endeavour. All the best to your dad's journey and remember to have fun.

$54.12

Graham Rowe

You had a great trip

$54.12

Benita And Tony Newcombe

$54.12

Glenn Parkes

$54.12

Kerri Stiles

Your daughter delivered a pamphlet to Yarrawonga CP. Good luck paddling Helen would be proud.

$54.12

Michelle Mcallistet

$54.12

Andrea Saggers

$54.12

Vicki Newcomb

Good on ya old boy!!!

$54.12

Lorelei (loz) Thomas

Congratulations Pete. You are truly inspiring. I nursed Helen in the Bright Hospital, and you're sooo right... she never complained and was always so lovely and thankful for everything. Good luck with the rest of your adventure.

$54.12

Jeff & Chris Eime

Good job with your dog n support person who we met at the caravan park at Mannum

$54.12

Keiron Jeffreys

Good on you mate that you like Mannum Caravan Park all the best

$54.12

Hayley Smith

$54.12

Addison Jobe

Love you Georgia x

$54.12

Will, Chester, Daphne, Frank And Reg Taylor

For all the cupcakes at Georgia's bake sale!

$54.12

Alex Morrison

Amazing effort. Well done.

$54.12

Quinn And Rose Dobson

All the best!

$54.12

Justin Hennessy

Best of luck on your paddle - an amazing cause and all the very best.

$54.12

Spencer Dixon

Best of luck Poobah, it’s awesome what you’re doing

$54.12

Samuel Franklin

$54.12

Annette Sigley

Great effort Pete!

$54.12

Jodie Germaine

This is a wonderful tribute to Helen. Safe paddling Peter. You’re amazing.

$54.12

Natalie Kelly

All the best, Peter.

$54.12

Gomathy Natarajan

$54.12

Ross Newland

$54.12

Kerry Cupitt

All the best on your journey - know you can do it. Hayley has faith in you.

$54.12

Lili And Tim

Hi Pete - we were so sorry to hear about Helen. That’s an awesome challenge you’ve set yourself there! Inspirational!! We’ll be thinking of you. Lili and Tim

$54.12

Adrian

All the best Peter wishing you safe travels

$54.12

Maggie Barton

$54.12

Anonymous

Met Peter & Maggie at the Robinvale Riverside Caravan Park. Great effort Peter, hope you raise well above your goal.

$54.12

Anonymous

Best of luck on your journey Pete

$54.12

Murray Pettinger

Good luck ! Amazing cause

$54.12

Mayu Shimura

$54.12

Anonymous

I'm sorry for your loss and I hope you are having a great adventure. This is a fantastic thing to do. Very inspiring.

$54.12

Patrick Mccann

Nice to meet you, Maggie and Geoff at Renmark CP.

$54.12

Alana, Ishmam, Maya And Hala Bari

Cheering you on from Holcombe Ave, what an inspiration

$54.12

Jill Chalwell

$54.12

Sue

Love and best wishes

$54.12

Mick & Diane Koch

Met Pete at Wellington caravan Park sa looked remarkably fresh for someone who has paddled 2500kls. Keep it nearly at mouth and for a special cause.

$54.12

Lyndall H

$54.12

Anonymous

Good luck Pete. Wishing you every chance of a successful trip.

$54.12

Michelle Barker

$54.12

Vicki Losch

Safe trip Pete, Helen will be with you all the way.

$54.12

Wandilidogs Grooming

Good luck Peter and Maggie we hope you have an amazing and safe adventure down the Murray river. A wonderful tribute for Helen and raising money for a much needed service. Will be thinking of you and sweet Maggie. Donna.x

$54.12

Susan Anderson

Safe travels Peter.

$54.12

Kim Robinson

Respect to you Pete.

$54.12

Anonymous

$54.12

Betty Castricum

$54.12

Bruce Nordeck

$54.12

Robyn Wood

$54.12

Darin Lynch

$54.12

Heather & Greg Kelly

Good luck Peter to you and Maggie. A wonderful way to acknowledge your lovely wife Helen.

$54.12

Mary Bakkum

Thinking of you Peter,all the very best to you and your family.❤️

$54.12

Yvonne Ward

Paddle well, Pete

$54.12

Anonymous

$54.12

Sharon Lidden

Good luck Peter

$54.12

The Maronis

Beautiful tribute and amazing challenge xx

$54.12

Renee Myhr

What you are doing is incredible and very inspirational

$54.12

Barbara Clapperton

Good luck.

$54.12

Gloria De Marchi

What an inspirational way to honour your wife and all those that have battled. .

$54.12

Jody Vlahandreas

Good luck Peter! Wishing you a safe journey

$54.12

Toll Group

Hope to help in a small way to contribute to Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre with new facilities, services and research.

$54.12

Gavin De Zylva

Great work Peter, good luck

$54.12

Jennifer Jones

$54.12

Anonymous

$54.12

Anonymous

Amazing effort Peter 👌

$54.12

Habib

All the best mate, best wishes from the Roxy footy club

$54.12

Brodie Naggs

$54.12

Libby Katterl

Hi Peter, was very saddened to hear of Helen's passing truly an amazing lady. What an inspiration you are, you may remember the story of "A man has to do what a man has to do" wishing you all the best on your journey. Libby & Rudi.

$54.12

Sammy Dagher

Good luck Peter. What you and your family are doing in memory of Helen is remarkable. The Roxburgh Park FNC is right behind you.

$54.12

Eileen Sims

$54.12

Peter Lausch

$54.12

Peter Lausch

$54.12

Kelly Deaves

Well done Peter, what a lovely way to honour your beautiful wife and to raise much needed funds, I hope you can reach your fundraising goal :)

$54.12

Chantel Raines

$54.12

Patrick Dennis

Go Captain Crummie

$54.12

Sally Bradley

A lovely tribute to Helen, Peter. I am a work colleague of Katrina, Helen’s sister. All the best with this great venture!

$54.12

Anonymous

Keep paddling Peter & Maggie May!

$54.12

Ross Newland

AMAZING work Pete! Keep paddling and keep Billy away from the accounts!

$54.12

Steve De Araugo

$54.12

Maddie

$54.12

Michelle Lewis

$54.12

Kate Davison

Well done Pete ! Helen would be so proud of you . 👏 Miss her beautiful smile ❤️

$54.12

Kylie Trotter

$54.12

Jeff

Well done mate

$54.12

Jenny Chalwell

Take it easy and enjoy the ride Peter

$54.12

Agnieszka Duff

Wishing you all the best,

$54.12

Anonymous

$54.12

Anne

A very special journey, Pete. 🐾🐾❤️

$54.12

Roslyn Pascoe

Good luck Peter you are doing a amazing thing

$54.12

Helena Messent

What an amazing experience and love that the dog goes too! Thinking of all you especially georgia 🩷

$54.12

Judy Williams

$54.12

Gail Hagan

$54.12

Craig & Claire Shepherd

Go for it Peter! From the Holcombe Shepherds!!

$53.52

Jess Littlejohn

$52.92

Sarah Moore

$52.92

Leanne And Greg

You are amazing! Helen would be so proud of you. So glad you have Maggie keeping an eye on you.

$52.92

Tahlia Chappell

♥️♥️♥️

$51

Graeme And Jenny Parry

For Helen

$50

Georgia Sharp

$50

Wow Houseboats Wow Factor

Congratulations Peter and Maggie from the team at Wow Houseboats

$50

Matt Whiteoak

$50

Bethany Round

Good Luck Pete! This is incredible!

$50

Patsy Mckenzie

Best of luck Peter. What an incredible thing to do in Helens memory. Love from Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

$50

Alex Ferguson

$50

Jodi Carnes

Good luck Pete. I know Helen will be helping you through the difficult parts.

$50

Dennis Currell

For Helen

$50

Ben Dawson

$50

The Pywell Family

For Helen

$50

Marilyn Henn

For Helen.

$50

Jodie Plummer

All the best on your journey Peter.

$50

Jo Holland

For Helen

$50

Merri Nash

For Helen

$50

Ebony Milbourne

Well done to Peter and your family for supporting a great cause, from a daughter who also lost her mother, love and strength to you all ❤️

$50

A & L Hood

Wishing you a safe paddle Pete. I’m sure Helen will be with you in spirit every paddle stroke down the Murray River. Andy & Lisa

$50

Ronnie Parker Prince Of Port Adelaide

For Helen

$50

Greg Egan

I know this journey will be one of many contradicting emotions. I'm glad you will have good friends by your side. I wish you smooth paddling.

$50

Liz Bird

$50

Claire Chamberlain

$50

Jonathan Eutropius

Good on ya mate. What a fantastic idea you’ve had! After caring for two parents with cancer on my own, I was so grateful for the wonderful people who helped us. I offered many times to my local cancer unit to help with the things that I personally needed help with and to share my “crash course degree” in cancer care. But bureaucracy is so averse to volunteers actually helping. Wish I had thought of a way to leverage of my efforts the way you have! Safe travels and I hope you, your dog and your travel mate have a great time during your “cathartic” journey. Good on you mate.

$50

Kate Byford

Congratulations Peter I have been speaking to Emily and Roger along the way and wanted to say what an inspiration you are. I was hoping to see you come past my houseboat but timing didn’t allow for it. Such an amazing effort well done

$50

Sharlene Gasperoni

$50

Kerrie Omeara

How proud she is I am sure .

$50

Anonymous

Well done Peter a mighty effort

$50

Nina Tomasoni

Just keep paddling Just keep paddling Love your work xxx

$43.60

Sally Cocks

So sorry for your loss Peter. Good luck with the paddle, what a wonderful thing you are doing. Sally (AKA Brooke)

$40

Walwa Riverside Caravan Park

For Helen

$40

Ball Park Caravan Park Corowa

For Helen

$35

James Barnett

$35

Fellow Campers Of Nrma Riverside Holiday Park Mildura

For Helen

$33.15

Pip Alexander

Well done Peter! What a legend! Helen would be so proud of your efforts!

$33.15

Hudson Olsson

$33.15

Marg Malkin

So very sad to hear about Helen Pete.

$33.15

S Cooke

All the best

$33.15

Maggie & Col

Wonderful way to honour your darling wife, Peter. Take no risks and have fun.

$33.15

Tracy Edwards

Great cause - all the best!

$32.43

Sarah Geromichalos

Amazing Pete. We will be thinking of you and cheering you on from afar xx

$30

Miyo Stanton

$30

K Watts

$30

Brenna Waring

Best of luck Pete

$28.96

Indyanna Kenny

$27.81

Joy Carden

What a legend good luck and hope you enjoy

$27.81

Graham And Marilyn Holcombe Ave Neighbours

Well done, your a true inspiration. Love from Holcombe ave

$27.81

Lori Kim

Sending you Love from Toll USA ! ❤️

$27.81

Sharon Kneale

Thank you for raising funds for such a worthy cause. Best wishes.

$27.81

Bruce Williams

All the best Peter

$27.81

Tamara

$27.81

Ash Beer

All the best, Pete, Maggie and Geoff. Thank you for popping past our van in Swan Hill, We hope you don’t just make it to your goal, but exceed it!

$27.81

Laura Walkley

$27.81

Anonymous

$27.81

John And Julie Mattinson

Great to meet you and share your journey. Well done for a great cause!

$27.81

Michelle Yarwood

So sorry for your loss Pete. You have raised so much money that will help many people. Amazing effort.

$27.81

Anonymous

$27.81

Anonymous

$27.81

Callington Family Day Care

Well done Peter. We love your family and they’ve been very special members of our day care family. Joe, Michelle, Amber, Jacob and Connor must be so proud of you. They’ve always spoken so fondly of yourself and Helen. Thank you for raising so much for such an important cause x

$27.81

Kane Fitzhenry

$27.81

Karen & Wayne Hamill

We met you Peter in the Mannum caravan park yesterday, what an amazing effort, well done to you and Maggie 👍

$27.81

Oliver Dixon

$27.81

Tre Vodden

🫶 from TV

$27.81

John Signorini

Wishing you all the best Peter. A great cause.

$27.81

David Wingrove

Great work Peter

$27.81

Vic

Good on you Pete this is a massive undertaking in memory of your lovely wife. She will be with you every paddle stroke of your journey.

$27.81

Meg Moorhouse

Picked up your flyer at Bright and wish you all the best - Helen would be proud. I’m so sorry she has died. May this bring you meaning and some peace and purpose!

$27.81

Sharon Dunn

$27.81

Jenny Kerslake

You’re a wonderful man to be doing this, all the very best and I’m sure that your wife will be with you in those quiet moments while you’re paddling 😊

$27.81

Jonalyn Laxa

GOD BLESS YOUR JOURNEY🙏

$27.81

Lauren Brooks

$27.81

Thomas Baker

$27.81

Damian Iles

$27.81

Linda Milburn

Amazing!!

$27.81

Mrh Murray River Hideaway

Thanks for staying with us

$27.81

David Miller

Great effort Pete well done

$27.81

Anonymous

$27.81

Darren Baldock

$27.81

Kaye Holt

Well done Peter A very worthy cause Your beautiful wife is honoured and remembered

$27.81

Sammy Dagher

$27.81

Donnie Mate

On ya crumpet

$27.81

Anonymous

$27.81

Indee Williams

Well done Pete!

$27.81

Kristy Barnes Cullen

Read your story online, and such a wonderful reminder for us city folk of the importance of receiving cancer care close to home. Good luck Peter & Maggie.

$27.81

Mary Newland

$27.81

Anonymous

You can and will do it. Lots of hugs to you and Maggie

$27.51

Khalid Zoobi

$27.21

Johan Van Niekerk

$27.21

Jenny Newport

Best wishes Pete

$27.21

Anonymous

$25

Jane Delaney

$25

Kirsty Peacock

Well done, Peter! Good luck!

$25

Ali Mccarthy

$25

Anonymous

Amazing what you are doing

$25

Shiv And Jake

xx

$25

Hayden Barnett

$25

Jamie Bellam

$25

Anonymous

$25

Andrew Capuana

$25

Hayden Barnett

$22.58

Eve Ryden

$22.58

Brian &julie Smith

So sorry to hear of your loss Peter. We all support you on this journey. Stay safe.

$22.58

Billy Dixon

Goooo Poohbah Love ruby Helen

$22.58

Jo Gatland

I hope my small donation helps you reach your goal Pete. I often think of your beautiful wife, Helen and I’m very lucky to have known her. I admire you for raising funds for cancer patients by paddling down the Murray with Maggie. Have a wonderful trip and I hope the sun shines on you, Jo

$22.58

Sarah

What an amazing thing to do in memory of your lovely wife. I lost my mum a long time ago to this awful disease. Too many wonderful people taken far too soon. Best of luck Peter, I'm sure Helen will be looking over you♡

$22.58

Zak Quinlan

$22.58

Anonymous

$22.58

Abbie Hams

$22.58

Vicki Short

$22.58

Rebekah Moore-hart

Congratulations - what a feat! Sending love to you and your family.

$22.58

Ryan Micallef

$22.58

Arlene Rendell

$22.58

Sarah Wagemans

$20

Lyn And Henry

For Helen

$20

Ali Mccarthy

$20

Charlie Marulli

Well done Peter. All the best!

$20

Anonymous

For Helen

$20

Jane And David

For Helen

$20

David English

For Helen

$20

Christina Lane

An incredible mission in honour of an incredible women x

$17.16

Toll

$17.16

Natalie Royston

$17.16

Samantha Primrose

$17.16

Anonymous

$16.80

Karla Boots

$16

Star Hotel Patrons

For Helen

$16

Wee Georgia Dixon

I love you Poobah. Love you Maggie Good luck have fun be careful 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

$15

Terry Boys

I lost my dad to Leukemia and his favourite place to be was on the Murray river so he’ll be with you on this journey amazing project

$15

Anonymous

Great cause. Good Luck!

$11.65

Natalie Allan

Sending love & luck from Scotland xxx

$11.65

Josephine Radford

$11.65

Renee Myhr

$11.65

Di O’neill

$11.65

Beth Grant

$11.65

Freeth Family

$11.65

Daniel Xerri

$11.65

Travis Cooke

$10

Anonymous

Well done Peter, hope Maggie is over the bite soon. Cheers

$10

Hannah Witts

$10

Anonymous

$10

Suzanne Sawyer

You are truly amazing Peter

$10

Antonio Yaacoub

$10

Robbie Barnard

Good luck

$5

Lou

For Helen

$5

Roy

For Helen

$4

Tony Richardson

Sorry, its been a slow month.