Community
11 October, 2024
Andrew’s legacy continues
ANDREW Suggett’s legacy continued to shine last weekend when a large crowd gathered for the annual Fight Parkinson’s ‘A Walk in the Park.’
Despite the cool winds and threatening clouds overhead, people of all ages were eager to take part in Sunday morning’s walk along the promenade.
Appropriately re-named the Andrew Suggett Parkinson’s Walk (in honour of the man who inspired, and continues to inspire, many across the region), the event was an emotional one for his family and many friends.
Speaking to the group prior to the start of the walk, current coordinator of the Warrnambool Parkinson’s Support Group Liz Morse said she was thrilled with the attendance.
“This is a great tribute to a great man,” Ms Morse said.
“To see so many people here this morning is just wonderful; Andrew (Suggett) has left a lasting legacy and we are all so very grateful for the work he did and the dedication he showed to so many groups and individuals across the district.
“As the new coordinator of the Warrnambool Parkinson’s Support Group I certainly have very big shoes to fill.”
Among those at the event was Fight Parkinson’s chief executive officer Emma Collin who spoke of her admiration for Andrew and of the work he had done over many years.
“I have known the Suggett family for many years and today is certainly an emotional day for us all,” she said.
“I congratulate Liz (Morse) on taking on the coordinator role and for the work she has done so far to not only promote our group but to also bring the community together for events such as today.
“Andrew has left an extraordinary legacy. He inspired many of us and his contributions toward the fight against Parkinson’s was immeasurable.
“His vision for A Walk in the Park stemmed back to 2014 when he led the way in organising the very first walk for Warrnambool. Looking at this crowd today I’m confident this event will continue for years to come.”
The Suggett family was well represented on the weekend, with Andrew’s wife Betty proudly joined by their children and grandchildren.
“This is a very emotional but very proud day for us all,” daughter Kathryn O’Connor said.
“It’s a great tribute to dad and I know he’d be so proud. He wanted to make sure there was a walk in Warrnambool so that everyone could be involved. Taking part in a walk in Melbourne wasn’t accessible for everyone but this is.
“He loved his community and he loved being able to bring the community together.
“The Warrnambool walk has always been popular but I think today, the first one to be named in his honour, has attracted an even bigger crowd which is amazing. We (his family) are very humbled and quite emotional.
“We thank everyone for coming along and helping continue dad’s legacy; the fight against Parkinson’s is such an important one.”
At the conclusion of the walk, participants were treated to a sausage in bread courtesy of the Rotary Club of Warrnambool Daybreak – one of many groups Andrew was actively involved with.
