On Sunday, 18 May, more than 1,000 South Australians came together at Pinky Flat in North Adelaide for the 2025 Walk to Defeat MND. Our biggest and most inspiring event yet. With the River Torrens as the scenic backdrop, the day brought together people from all walks of life to raise awareness and vital funds for Motor Neurone Disease (MND). Families, friends, carers, and loved ones stepped out in solidarity, united by shared stories and a collective support. From the first moment, there was a buzz of energy, and a sea of blue MNDSA shirts quickly filled the park as the community came out in force, many with their dogs to show their support.
Even the weather played its part, with blue skies and autumn sunshine lifting spirits and setting the stage for a truly memorable day. The morning kicked off with live music from Richard Palmer, who serenaded the crowd with an acoustic set, including a heartfelt version of our event theme song, Don’t Dream It’s Over. As coffee flowed from Deja Brew and kids lined up for face painting, our four-legged friends were treated at the dedicated dog station run by Coco + Bondi. There was also a sizzling BBQ and plenty of smiles as people connected, remembered loved ones, and felt the power of walking together for a cause.
The event officially began with a warm welcome from MNDSA Chairman Andrew Danson, followed by heartfelt words from MP Nat Cook, who bravely volunteered for an early Ice Bucketing, drawing cheers and laughter from the crowd. Our Gold Partner, Enable Fitness Centre, led a high-energy warm-up on stage, helping everyone shake off the morning chill before guiding the participants to the start line. As the Caledonian Pipe and Drum Band started playing, the walk officially began, with hundreds of people embarking on the 4.5km loop around the river; a moving procession of courage, remembrance, and unity.
The most unforgettable moments came after the walk, as the sound of laughter and celebration echoed across Pinky Flat during a spirited round of Ice Bucketing. Australian cricket great Greg Blewett doused his two sons with freezing water, much to the delight of the audience. He was followed by a host of MNDSA heroes, including CEO Karen Percival, Dr Lucy Pillay from the MND Clinic, board members Kristian Roocke and Stephen Pisani, and even a young boy from the crowd who nominated himself and stole the show with his bravery. The scene captured the heart of the event: joy, resilience, and a powerful sense of community action. As the crowd slowly dispersed, new friendships had been formed, stories shared, and the determination to defeat MND was stronger than ever. The Walk to Defeat MND is not just a fundraising event - it’s a living, breathing movement of people who care deeply and act with purpose. And thanks to your support, this year’s walk made an incredible impact, both emotionally and financially, as we continue to push for improved care, increased awareness, and ultimately, a cure.
As the crowd slowly dispersed, new friendships had been formed, stories shared, and the determination to defeat MND was stronger than ever. The Walk to Defeat MND is not just a fundraising event - it’s a living, breathing movement of people who care deeply and act with purpose. And thanks to your support, this year’s walk made an incredible impact, both emotionally and financially, as we continue to push for improved care, increased awareness, and ultimately, a cure.
We are deeply grateful to everyone who walked, volunteered, donated, and cheered from the sidelines. A heartfelt thank you to our Gold Partners, Enable Fitness Centre and Kanda, for your ongoing commitment and support.
To our generous in-kind sponsors: Ascend Aerial, Austral Meat, Coco + Bondi, Norwood Foodland, Kyton’s Bakery, Paradise Mazda, Rohde Egg Co., Thomas Foods, Tony & Mark’s, and Vili’s Family Bakery for helping bring this event to life.
The 2025 Walk to Defeat MND was a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we walk together. We can’t wait to see you again next year. In the meantime, there are so many ways to stay involved. Whether you're interested in volunteering, fundraising, or taking part in other events, your support helps make a real and lasting difference in the lives of those affected by MND.