Future doubt for Murray River Canoe Marathon

The Red Cross has decided to end its support for the Murray River Canoe Marathon at the end of this year's, and the 40th anniversary of the event.

Run over five days it's arguably the world's longest and most arduous marathon paddle race and attracts 700 competitors from Australia and around the world.

They travel along a 400 kilometre route in a variety of water craft, backed up by 300 volunteers, 3,000 support crew and WICEN providing sfety and logistics support both on land and water.

It has been a major WICEN emergency training exercise for around 35 years on the last five days of each year.

Rescue attempts are being made for marathon to continue. The Red Cross has provided substantial administrative and health support for the event that has also been a fundraiser for the organisation.

Its decision not to continue includes financial, volunteer support and safety concerns.
- Amateur Radio Victoria.
12/7/08