- Pat Farmer begins lap of mainland Australia at Optus Stadium
- Run for The Voice is a 14,400km journey in support of the Voice to Parliament referendum
- Farmer is Australia's most recognised ultramarathon runner
Ultramarathon runner Pat Farmer began his lap of mainland Australia at Optus Stadium this morning.
Farmer's Run for The Voice began in Hobart in April and he is hoping to complete his 14,400 kilometre run in October, finishing at Uluru. He will run an average of 80km a day for the six-month journey.
As Australia's most recognised professional ultramarathon runner, and former Member of Federal Parliament, Farmer is using this run to raise support for the upcoming the Voice to Parliament referendum.
Farmer commenced his mainland journey 40 metres in the air, completing a lap of Optus Stadium's rooftop before heading north to his first stop in Yanchep.
From 2001 to 2010, Farmer was a Member of the House of Representatives, representing the seat of Macarthur. During this time he also served as Parliamentary Secretary for Education, Science and Training for three years.
Keen supporters can keep track of his run on runforthevoice.com and register to run with him at various locations on the circuit.
As stated by Sport and Recreation Minister David Templeman:
"Pat Farmer is an inspiration, testing his body and mind to raise awareness of this important issue.
"It is great to send Pat Farmer off on his lap of Australia, 42m above the Derbarl Yerrigan at Optus Stadium.
"I wish him all the best in this courageous effort to raise awareness for the Voice to Parliament."
As stated by Aboriginal Affairs Minister Tony Buti:
"What an inspirational way to get people talking, walking and running together in support of the Voice.
"The Voice is all about unifying Australians and bringing people together to make a difference.
"Pat is leading by example and letting his feet do the talking. Congratulations on such a sterling effort and setting such a cracking pace on helping to get the Voice successfully across the finishing line."
