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09 April 2025
By Bronwyn Hastings
Fight Parkinson’s announced at Horsham’s Walk in the Park event on Sunday that it will contribute $815,000 towards a world-class multi-disciplinary care model ParkinsonNet pilot in Australia.
Fight Parkinson’s chief executive Emma Collin said 20 researchers from across Australia would take part in the five-year project.
“There are two pilot sites – and this is the exciting piece for all of you – the two sites are Western Victoria and Tasmania,” Ms Collin said.
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“Led by Professor Michele Callisaya from the University of Tasmania, the project has just received a $2.88-million Medical Research Futures Fund grant to build the capability of your allied healthcare professionals here to understand and know Parkinson’s, and give people clear and easy access.
“Part of that grant, Parkinson’s has made a commitment of $815,000 community-sourced research funding to help build that model for Australia.”
ParkinsonNet is a globally recognised, evidence-based healthcare model, which has been implemented in Europe and the United States, improving access to high-quality care, reducing hospitalisation, lowering disability rates, and cutting healthcare costs.
“So when people ask what we are walking for today, we’re walking for the free services and supports that we provide every day, but also for the research of how we can implement sustainable models of care for people with Parkinson’s in the community – in your community, where the pilot site will be,” Ms Collin said.
“That’s exciting news, and it can mean world-changing levels of services and support for rural and remote areas, that’s what this project’s about, and that’s what we’re seeking to do.”
More than 100 people supported Horsham’s event, raising about $2000 to assist Fight Parkinson’s to deliver education, peer support services and resources that empower people impacted by Parkinson’s and Atypical Parkinson’s.
Event organiser Shona Cross said the turnout was truly heartwarming.
“It was a sea of smiles and strength,” she said.
“Horsham has shown up in the most incredible way to say we care, we are here and we are walking this road together.”
People can find more information on Parkinson’s support services, or donate, at www.fightparkinsons.org.au.
The entire April 9, 2025 edition of The Weekly Advertiser is available online. READ IT HERE!
