February 2005

Team tackles Murray Marathon

When Dean Lobbe’s parents took him camping as a youngster, they never expected where his early passion for the outdoors would lead.

Who would have thought the toddler who wore an oversized life-jacket on a family trip to the river would be the driving force behind the first Red Cross-Herald Sun Murray Marathon team to involve people with disabilities?

But Dean has done this as a part of his Program Coordinator role at Karingal’s Adventure Based Learning Experiences (KABLE).

KABLE began three and a half years ago when disability services organisation Karingal decided an outdoor activities program would benefit its clients.

Developed by Dean, the program services not only around 160 Karingal clients but clients from various other organisations.

KABLE is one of the specialist services made available through Karingal’s Community Programs.

Community Programs provide a range of day support services to people with a disability through Department of Human Services-funded inititiatives such as Futures for Young Adults (FFYA), Adult Training and Support Services (ATSS) and Flexible Day Support.

KABLE offers abseiling, bike riding, surfing, horse riding and snorkelling.

A team of 10, including four with varying degree of intellectual disability and Karingal staff, took part in the Murray Marathon.

‘Success in this event requires a big team effort as each team member has to paddle a section of the river each day,’ Dean said.

‘The overall team plan was to ensure that all participants enjoyed the experience and stayed well-rested during the event.’

The idea was driven by the desire to give clients added confidence, self-esteem, sense of hope and responsibility.

‘The Murray Marathon trip allowed participants to work as a team, stick to a task, develop as individuals and realise their potential.’

Sponsors MatchWorks, Mountain Design and Four Winds Marine kitted out the team for the marathon, an annual event between Christmas and New Year attracting around 1,000 paddlers.

Camping along the way, the team travelled 404 kilometres from Yarrawonga to Swan Hill and was placed second in its class.

‘We certainly did not break any speed records but we did paddle the distance and it was an unforgettable experience,’ said Dean.