A local Sydney crew are competing in the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race to help Livewire support young people living with a serious illness, chronic health condition or disability.
The crew, who have renamed their 37 foot sailing boat Livewire.org.au, are aiming to raise $50,000 for Livewire through their ‘8 Men in a Boat' fundraising campaign.
A wholly owned subsidiary of the Starlight Children's Foundation, Livewire is designed to provide a free, safe and fun online community for children and young people to hang out, connect, share experiences, creatively express themselves and know that they are not alone in their situation.
Boat master Terry Rooney said “As parents, Livewire is a cause that resonated strongly with our crew. To see young people, who are facing such momentous challenges, find strength and support from a network of peers on Livewire is just inspiring.”
The crew are seeking people to sponsor their journey with all proceeds going directly to Livewire. They have set up a secure fundraising website to support the ‘8 Men in a Boat' campaign, where each crew member has their own page containing a profile, photos, blog updates and fundraising targets. More information can be found at www.livewire.org.au/support-us
The crew will also be supplying daily updates, photos and blogs straight from the boat to be published in the Livewire.org.au online community; giving Livewire members a first look as the action happens.
“We are very pleased that Terry and his crew are showing us this support, not just financially but also by helping raise awareness of the unique challenges these young people experience based on their illness or disability,” said Omar Khalifa, Managing Director of Livewire.
“With a full suite of community tools, including chat, blogs and forums, Livewire is a fun place for young Australians to hang out and provide invaluable support for each other,” he concluded.
Online retail and auction company, GraysOnline, are also supporting Livewire by hosting an online auction where all proceeds go to Livewire. Items on offer include a day out on the Livewire.org.au yacht and the chance to join the Livewire.org.au crew for a twilight or Saturday race. The auction starts on the 9th November and ends on the 16th November.
Cameron Poolman, CEO GraysOnline, said “GraysOnline is really pleased to be able to support Livewire and be involved in this iconic Australian event.”
To sponsor the crew in their challenge or to bid in the online auction visit www.livewire.org.au/support-us
Livewire.org.au is supported by funding from the Australian Government under the Clever Networks program, Starlight and major corporate partners such as Optus. This funding has enabled Livewire to develop a unique and valuable program that will connect, support and empower its members.
Any young Australian aged over 10 and under 21, who is currently living with a serious illness, chronic health condition or disability who wishes to join Livewire or find out more information should visit www.livewire.org.au or contact member.services@livewire.org.au.
