The important cause of child protection organisation Bravehearts received some unexpected federal funding last week, when Claude 'Mowerman' Harvey crossed paths with a group of community leaders.
Visiting Hughenden on his latest trek with his lawnmower, the 76-year-old Gold Coast retiree came across Scott Buchholz, the federal assistant minister for road safety and freight transport, and Kennedy MP Bob Katter.
Mr Buchholz said it was inspiring to see Mr Harvey criss-crossing the region and taking his message around protecting children from child sexual assault to regional parts.
He donated to the money bucket to put his money where his mouth was, saying he strongly congratulated Mr Harvey on his efforts.
"I can't believe just how much money he has managed to raise in support of vulnerable children and to deliver his important message," he said.
"These conditions are not kind, high temps, heavy rains, long distances.
"He has raised $1.6 million-plus, working with Bravehearts, particularly in support of children.
"Let's help him get to $2 million by 2022 - if you see him, put in some coin.
"I stand with Mr Harvey in saying no excuses for violence against children and I thank him for supporting the community and taking the message out here in regional Queensland.'
After visiting Winton during the Way out West Festival, Mr Harvey travelled to Cloncurry via Kynuna and McKinlay, then set off from Mount Isa for a Flinders Highway trek to Julia Creek, Richmond and then Hughenden.
He's since been to Charters Towers and is due to speak with students at Shalom Christian College in Townsville on Wednesday.
While most Australians his age have their feet up, Mr Harvey said he was happy to be able to contribute to the community through awareness and fundraising.
"Although fundraising is a big part of my tours, raising awareness of this horrendous crime among as many communities as possible to help prevent child sexual assault, is my primary mission," he said.
Mr Harvey, a former lawnmower salesman, spends five months each year travelling around Australia shaking the Bravehearts donation bucket.
"I absolutely adore the Bravehearts education programs in the schools and I think it's the best education program in this world to teach children how to be safe," he said.
His dedication was recognised with an Order of Australia medal in the Queen's Birthday honours list in 2019.
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Sally Gall
Based at Blackall, CW Qld, where I've raised a family, run Merino sheep and beef cattle, and helped develop a region - its history, tourism, education and communications. Get in touch at 0427 575 955 if you've got a story idea for me.
Based at Blackall, CW Qld, where I've raised a family, run Merino sheep and beef cattle, and helped develop a region - its history, tourism, education and communications. Get in touch at 0427 575 955 if you've got a story idea for me.
