Bruce Pumpa to participate in Oxfam fundraiser Walk Against Want with family

WHEN Bruce Pumpa takes on the Walk Against Want for Oxfam next month, he’ll have another two generations by his side.

Bruce Pumpa will be joined by his daughter Lana Malbroukou and grand daughter Thea, for the Walk Against Want. Picture: Steve Tanner

WHEN Bruce Pumpa takes on the Walk Against Want for Oxfam next month, he’ll have another two generations by his side.

His daughter Lana and five month old baby granddaughter Thea will join him this year, in an event he’s been part of for more than 40 years.

Mr Pumpa, 60, said Oxfam was an easy organisation to throw his support behind.

“Oxfam is a grassroots organisation, and it gives people the tools they need to help themselves,” he said.

Last year, the Eastern Suburbs Walk Against Want celebrated 50 years and they hoped to raise $50,000. While they didn’t quite hit that target, they are hoping to get close again this year.

The walk will be held on Sunday, May 7 and there are different distances on offer. Those taking part can chose between a six, 13 or 18km walk or 13, 18 or 36km bike ride.

Mr Pumpa said the paths were all wheelchair friendly and didn’t cross any roads, so were safe for children.

The route starts at the St John Ambulance Hall, Elgar Park, Mont Albert North follows the Koonung Trail through bush and parklands.

The event starts at 9am. Refreshments will be provided on course and at the finish.

“It’s a sad reality that we still live in a world where dirty water and poor sanitation claim the lives of children every day,” he said.

“One person in three in the world lives in poverty.

“Oxfam is helping improve the lives of people living in poverty and it doesn’t take much to make a real difference,” Mr Pumpa said.

Walk Against Want was first held in 1967 to symbolise the long walk undertaken daily by women in developing countries to fetch water.

Thousands of people have taken part in this event during the past 50 years, raising money for Oxfam Australia’s long-term development work in countries around the world and projects with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

To get involved, call 9289 9287 or email [e-mail]