Ms JODIE HARRISON (Charlestown—Minister for Women, Minister for Seniors, and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault)—It was a real pleasure to attend Dementia Australia's Hunter Memory Walk and Jog at the Warners Bay Foreshore on Wednesday 2 April. The Memory Walk & Jog is an initiative aimed at raising funds which then go on to support counselling programs, education, support lines and even research into a cure for dementia. Dementia is one of Australia's biggest health challenges, with 433,300 Australians living with dementia. In the Charlestown electorate, around 1,595 people are currently living with dementia. The events are designed with the whole community in mind, helping people of all fitness levels to get involved: they can walk, jog, or run the full course, or complete shorter distances. Even dogs are welcome to join in! It was inspiring to see so many locals come together to get active for brain health and support those living with dementia. With around 685 participants and over $82,400 raised, the event was a fantastic reminder of what our community can achieve when we come together. A big thank you to Dementia Australia for hosting such a meaningful event! I look forward to future Memory Walk and Jogs.

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