Appeal after AIDS Walk wash-out

A wash-out at the planned Walk for AIDS on Sunday has left organisers with a budget shortfall, prompting an appeal for community support.

ACON, the Bobby Goldsmith Foundation (BGF) and People Living with HIV/AIDS (NSW) had hoped up to 2,000 people would walk in the inaugural fundraiser in the Royal Botanic Gardens.

But the organisers were left out-of-pocket after wet weather forced them to cancel the fundraiser.

Organisers would not be drawn on how many people registered for the walk, or on how much money was needed to cover costs.

BGF chief executive Bev Lange said many of the registered entrants contacted about the cancellation on Sunday morning were keen to pledge their $20 sign-up fee or pre-arranged sponsorship.

The three HIV/AIDS groups are also urging people who planned to sign up on the day to make a donation.

PLWHA (NSW) executive officer Geoff Honnor told Sydney Star Observer the cancellation was very disappointing, but we can only regroup and go again next year.

This was obviously the first year, and it would have been good to get the thing profiled this year, he said.

-˜We’re hopeful of doing it maybe around the same time next year [but] we haven’t come up with a firm date yet.

The Walk for AIDS would have marked the first time ACON, BGF and PLWHA (NSW) had worked together on a fundraiser.

The charity model has enjoyed success overseas but has yet to make its Sydney debut.

To make a donation to help cover Walk for AIDS costs, call BGF on 1800 651 011.