Goodwin Aged Care Services has unveiled an ambitious $100,000 fundraising target for the 2026 Dementia Australia Memory Walk & Jog, reinforcing its commitment as the official ACT State Sponsor for the second year running. The event, set for Sunday, 22 February at Lake Burley Griffin in Canberra, aims to rally the community against dementia, which has become the leading cause of death across Australia.
Addressing a Critical Health Crisis
With approximately 6,100 individuals in the ACT currently living with dementia, Goodwin is determined to exceed its previous record of $63,450 raised in 2025. CEO Stephen Holmes emphasised that leading this philanthropic effort is integral to the aged care provider's community role. "Goodwin is proud to lead philanthropy in this space in the ACT because dementia is a disease that touches so many families across our community," said Mr. Holmes.
He added, "Goodwin is part of the fabric of society, and it is our responsibility to contribute in this way, ensuring we provide hope and support for the thousands of Canberra families navigating this journey."
Personal Stories Driving Change
Among the community advocates participating is Peter Barclay AO, owner of King O'Malley's pub in Civic, whose involvement is deeply personal. His 90-year-old mother, Dorothy ('Dodi'), resides at Goodwin House's Memory Support Unit in Ainslie. Barclay expressed gratitude for the specialised care she receives, which helps maintain her connections to family and community.
"Even though we can't have big conversations, she recognises me and that's something I savour," said Barclay. He highlighted the 24-hour support at Goodwin, providing peace of mind for families. "If you've walked in these shoes before, no doubt you want to lace up and walk for change."
Corporate Collaboration and Community Engagement
To achieve the six-figure goal, Goodwin has enlisted a strong network of corporate partners for the "Suburb Showdown" initiative. Erik Boddeus, Executive Manager of Retirement Living, Property and Development at Goodwin, noted the overwhelming support from the business community.
"To reach our ambitious goal of raising $100,000 for Dementia Australia, we're incredibly grateful for our corporate partners who have joined us to lead the charge," said Mr. Boddeus. Key contributors include ck Architecture, Dowse Projects, Guide Healthcare, Higgins Paint, and Manteena Group.
Manteena Group, in particular, has taken a prominent role by supporting Team Goodwin Downer. Michael Grace, Senior Project Manager at Manteena, explained, "Supporting Team Goodwin Downer is only fitting, given that Manteena is the project lead with Goodwin's latest development - Goodwin Village Downer." He invited the community to join the walk, extending a warm welcome to future residents.
Innovative Recovery Initiatives
Guide Healthcare has deepened its involvement through a three-year platinum partnership, including a "Recovery Zone" on event day. This zone will feature light recovery seated massages and "Blaze Battle Stations" to test cognitive and physical agility. Simon Kerrigan, CEO of Guide Healthcare, stated, "We are thrilled to support Team Goodwin and the Memory Walk & Jog. Our Recovery Zone is designed to not only help participants recover physically but also to highlight the vital connection between physical activity and cognitive health."
Intergenerational Outreach and Education
The 2026 campaign introduces the Team Goodwin Schools Challenge, linking local schools with Goodwin Villages to foster discussions about dementia and reduce stigma. Emmaus Christian School in Dickson has already joined Team Goodwin Ainslie. Elna Jennings, Goodwin General Manager of Marketing and Communications, expressed enthusiasm, "We are delighted that Emmaus has responded to our call for support and we invite all other local schools to get involved too."
Seven-year-old ambassador Lia Casao, walking with her mother Gail, a Goodwin Home Care worker, encapsulated the spirit: "We are walking together for our nans and pops, because we don't want them to forget our names."
Event Details and Community Participation
The Memory Walk & Jog at Stage 88, Parkes, offers multiple options: a 2km walk, 5km walk/jog, and a 10km timed run, all open to the public and pets. Participants can enjoy a community sausage sizzle sponsored by Alpha Fresh Foods, BIDFOOD, Coca-Cola, and PFD Food Services.
Top fundraisers, or "outpacers," have the chance to win prizes from sponsors including Belgravia Leisure, Higgins Paint, King O'Malley's, NextGen, Novotel, and Mercure. For those on the NSW south coast, Team Goodwin Batemans Bay invites walkers to start at The Manor retirement village on Beach Road.
This initiative underscores a collective effort to combat dementia through fundraising, awareness, and community solidarity in Canberra and beyond.
