Eva Batey with her father, Pete who is her inspiration for an epic 2,356km, solo journey down the Murray River.
Some might stand back in awe, applauding her courage, others will say she’s crazy, but Eva Batey has her reasons.
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Eva left Bringenbrong Bridge, 10 minutes from Corryong, last week as she embarked on a 2,356km, 10-week, solo trip down the Murray River, by canoe.
Her journey, from NSW to the Southern Ocean is to raise funds and awareness for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA), and her reasons for doing so are deeply personal.
Eva’s father, grandfather and other members of her family all have the disease, along with 79 Aussie men who are diagnosed every day.
It’s a cause that runs deep in her entire family’s hearts and she’s taking on the challenge and raising funds to support the men in her family and others impacted by a prostate cancer diagnosis.
“From game-changing research to specialized mental and physical care, there is so much more we can do for those we love,” Eva said.
“My grandfather is still an active member in support groups to help other men and their families cope with the cancer and recovery in Western Australia.
“Seeing this resilience in my grandfather and father will give me the strength to keep paddling through every kilometre and every bend of the river.”
Eva’s best mate Rosie can’t join her on this trip as it travels through national parks.
Eva will complete the journey solo with friends and family joining her for short stints along the way, all the while documenting her experience through social media to spread awareness.
She will pass through Corowa and Yarrawonga Mulwala and hopes to connect with the communities along the way to share her message.
“I would love people to support me on the journey and the team that can save lives by making a tax-deductible donation to my fundraiser,” Eva said.
“Whether that is $2 or $20, every bit of momentum helps me down the river and helps PCFA get closer to a cure and more support for those in need.”
How your support helps
•A tax-deductible donation will directly support PCFA
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