Chris Benson

I’m incredibly excited (and slightly nervous), to be taking part in the Massive Murray Paddle to raise funds for research at Macquarie University. Macquarie University houses Australia’s largest MND research facility, as well as the MND Clinic which treats 10% of MND patients in Australia. I’m doing this in memory of my mother, Bernice Atlee, who battled MND before her passing two years ago.

I work at carbonTRACK, the company that is proud to provide tracking devices to the Massive Murray Paddle. And this year I suggested we extend our efforts in this event by grabbing a paddle and getting out on the water to support a great cause! carbonTRACK loved the idea and was thrilled to sponsor my boat.  

Unfortunately, at that stage, I wasn’t aware that that meant I’d be paddling the kayak 404kms over 5 days. Hence my nerves!

Regardless of my increasing apprehension at such an undertaking, I’m also proud to take part in such a wonderful community initiative and to help raise awareness for various causes. It’s truly a special event and one that plays a crucial role surrounding river health and community engagement along the Murray River communities.

I’m paddling to raise funds for Macquarie University research, as I’d like to highlight the recent research efforts of such champions as Professor Dominic Rowe and Professor Gilles Guillemin who have been researching the connection between MND and Blue-green Algal blooms. Through their research, I feel a great connection with the river, making this event the perfect fit.

Professor Dominic Rowe and Professor Gilles Guillemin provided amazing inspiration to my mother, and I’m proud to be supporting their work.

So in memory of Mum and recognition of Dominic and Gilles and the great team Macquarie University, thank you for your support.