Pensioner Pete’s Power Paddle: Turning Grief into Hope
Pensioner Pete’s Power Paddle for Cancer – A heartfelt story of determination, persistence and emotion to honor Helen.
When Peter Dixon first contacted the AWRCC Trust Fund in April, his grief was still raw. Just one month earlier, his beloved wife Helen had passed away after a courageous 20-month battle with pancreatic cancer. Wandiligong local Peter was returning to the place where Helen had received so much care, determined to make a difference.
“I’m thinking of kayaking the full length of the Murray River,” Peter shared.
“I completed it with my daughter about 15 years ago, but this time I’d like to do it to honour Helen.”
And then came a twist: “Last time I was with my daughter, but this time I want to take my pet poodle, Maggie.”
Soon, Maggie May had her own life jacket and was ready to become the star of the show.
When asked about a fundraising goal, Trust Fund Manager Andrew Mackinlay suggested $10,000.
Peter laughed: “Jeez, it’d be cheaper if I just donated that amount! I think we can aim a bit higher.” They settled on a conservative $30,000 and the campaign began.
A Journey That Captured Hearts
Before Peter even dipped his paddle in the water, the generosity of the community was overwhelming. Two major donations from Toll Group and the Bright Hospital Op Shop helped push the tally close to $80,000 before the first stroke.
After a short delay due to poor weather conditions, Peter officially launched on 2 September, starting at Bringenbrong Bridge. A camper van and support person, ‘Geriatric Geoff’ Barton, were also along for the ride.
Over nine weeks, Peter paddled through wind, rain, and fatigue, covering the full stretch of the Murray to Goolwa. Some days were tougher than others, but every challenge was met with determination, and Maggie’s company.
When Peter finally stepped out of his kayak for the last time, he learned he had smashed the target, raising more than $100,000 for cancer care.
A Legacy of Love
Peter’s incredible effort will fund vital services for local cancer services, supporting patients, advancing research, and improving treatment options.
His journey is a testament to how one person’s love and resilience can inspire an entire community.
Thank you, Peter, Maggie, and every donor who made this possible. Together, we are paddling toward a brighter future.
Peter Dixon and his co-paddler Maggie May L-R: Andrew Mackinlay, Peter Dixon and Richard Lukins
