media release

Date 20 November, 2002 For immediate release www.sane.org

SANE A map and a compass… a national charity helping people affected one way to navigate mental illness by mental illness

SANE media contact Lorraine Chiroiu surveyor, Ross Leonard, and his uncle Maurie, will soon 03 9682 5933 0414 427 291 walk 700km of the Australian Alps Walking Track, through remote high [email protected] country, to raise awareness of mental illness and inspire others to achieve their dreams.

The Great Alpine Trek for SANE will see Ross and Maurie set off on Boxing Day 2002 from Walhalla in ’s Gippsland region and arrive in Canberra two months later, having had no link with the outside world except a satellite phone for emergencies. ‘Do not depend on the track markers for navigation’ is the warning offered to those walking the remote Track. The pair will use only a map and compass to navigate significant wilderness areas – some of the highest country in Australia. The Track spans the granite plateau linking Baw Baw National Park, to the Alpine, Kosciuszko and Namadgi National Parks.

Ross was first diagnosed with schizophrenia 12 years ago while studying at university. His diagnosis was later changed to schizoaffective disorder – an illness where symptoms of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder can both occur. The little- known disorder has many possible combinations of symptoms, but generally appears as both disordered thought and mood. Ross has experienced symptoms of schizophrenia – delusions, disordered thinking and auditory hallucinations – along SANE Helpline with those of bipolar disorder – episodes of major depression or mania, where he Information and referral had a euphoric, elevated mood and ‘racing thoughts’. on mental illness 1800 688 382 www.sane.org

Page 1 – MORE Ross has faced the potentially disabling disorder with treatment, the support of family and friends and rehabilitation through outdoor activity – sea-kayaking, skiing, tai chi and bush walking. Despite the obstacles, Ross has completed his university degree, works part-time in his chosen profession and describes his life as ‘full and rewarding’. Ross wants to encourage others to do the same.

Ross and Maurie will carry cooking and sleeping supplies, as well as food, to last the epic journey, supplemented with food drops – placed on the route prior to the walk’s commencement. Water is scarce in some sections of the Track during Summer meaning the pair may also need to carry water for up to two days at a time.

People can sponsor Ross and Maurie’s alpine trek by contacting the SANE office on 03 9682 5933. Funds raised will support SANE’s national freecall Helpline that gives information and referral on mental illness.

The Great Alpine Trek for SANE will be launched with a 3.5km walk and BBQ National BBQ Day Sunday 24 November 2002 from 11.00am at , Victoria Street, Doncaster (Melways Reference 33 J10, near the Adventure Playground)

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