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July 2025

The Dementia Foundation Launches Epic ‘Big Lap’ Adventure to Raise Awareness for Young Onset Dementia

14-day convoy around Australia seeks sponsors and adventurous participants

Australia’s first dedicated young onset dementia organisation, The Dementia Foundation, has announced the launch of The Big Lap – an ambitious 14-day journey around Australia’s iconic Highway 1 to raise critical funds and awareness for families affected by young onset dementia.

Departing Perth on Friday 17 October 2025, the convoy of up to 20 vehicles will traverse 12,500 kilometres across Australia’s diverse landscapes, connecting major cities and regional communities while highlighting the challenges faced by the 30,000+ Australians under 65 living with young onset dementia.

“The Big Lap represents more than just an epic road trip,” said Brett Parker, Chair of The Dementia Foundation. “It’s about bringing Australia’s most underserved dementia community into the spotlight and raising funds for specialist support services that simply don’t exist elsewhere.”

The initiative aims to raise $175,000+ to establish comprehensive support services including workshops, community networks, family counselling programmes, and an annual event for everyone living with dementia, their families, and carers.

Adventure with Purpose

Participants will experience the ultimate Australian road trip while making a real difference. The convoy will follow Highway 1 – the world’s longest national highway – showcasing Australia’s extraordinary diversity from coral coastlines to red centre landscapes, connecting seven of Australia’s eight capital cities.

Participation costs from $2,000 per person (excluding accommodation), with all proceeds dedicated directly to The Dementia Foundation’s programmes supporting young onset dementia families.

Seeking Sponsors and Participants

The Foundation is actively seeking:

• Corporate sponsors to support this inaugural national awareness campaign
• Adventure-minded individuals ready to join the convoy experience
• Community partners in regional towns along the route

Marketing & Fundraising Manager Sam Desport explains: “We’re looking for people who want to combine adventure with meaningful impact. Whether you’re joining the convoy or sponsoring the journey, you’re supporting Australia’s most underserved dementia community.”

How to Get Involved

For Sponsorship Opportunities:

• Contact: Samantha Desport, Marketing & Fundraising Manager
• Email: samantha.desport@tdwa.org.au
• Phone: +61 414 624 702

For Participation Enquiries:

• Contact: Brett Parker, Chair
• Email: brett.parker@tdwa.org.au
• Phone: +61 403 609 055

Early bird sponsorship packages are available until 15 August 2025.

Join The Big Lap and help drive change for young onset dementia families across Australia.

For Media Enquiries reach out to Samantha Desport, Marketing & Fundraising Manager
Phone: +61 414 624 702
Email: samantha.desport@tdwa.org.au