On Saturday 10 May, Muscular Dystrophy NSW (MDNSW) will host its annual Big Red Roll & Stroll at Sydney Zoo in Western Sydney for the first time. Nearly 200 participants are expected at the event, which raises funds and awareness for MDNSW – NSW’s leading not-for-profit organisation supporting people living with neuromuscular conditions and their families.
Participants set their own fundraising goal and complete a fully accessible 3km course through the zoo’s grounds, before gaining access to the zoo’s annual GLOW event. People can sign up as individuals or as part of a team.
Now in its fifth year, the Big Red Roll & Stroll has raised more than $224,000 and brought together over 500 participants. Funds raised have contributed to delivering MDNSW’s programs, including peer support, camps and retreats, and advocacy.
An estimated 40,000 Australians live with neuromuscular conditions, including around 13,000 in NSW. These conditions can lead to progressive muscle weakness, loss of mobility, fatigue and chronic pain, affecting people from childhood through adulthood.
Jamieson Leeson, a Paralympic silver medallist in Boccia, is among this year’s community ambassadors. She said, “The Big Red Roll & Stroll is an important community event. Muscular Dystrophy NSW is an essential charity. They do so much for kids and adults with neuromuscular conditions in the whole of the state. Having events like this where people can just come together and fundraise for a great cause is awesome.”
Jessica Henry, CEO of MDNSW, said funds raised will support the organisation’s Young Adult’s Retreat.
“This year’s fundraising will directly benefit our Young Adult’s Retreat, offering young people a unique opportunity to connect, grow and experience independence in an accessible and supportive environment,” said Jessica. “We encourage everyone to join Big Red Roll & Stroll to make this possible – whether by rolling, strolling or donating.”
Registrations for the Big Red Roll & Stroll are open:
https://www.team-md.org.au/event/big-red-roll-stroll-2025/home