A former Tasmanian premier has embarked on a 350-kilometre walk from Burnie to Hobart to raise awareness of the challenges faced by migrant and refugee communities.
Peter Gutwein, who now chairs Migrant Resource Centre Tasmania, set off on the journey on Sunday morning.
He was joined by other community leaders at the start line of the walk, which aims to celebrate diversity while highlighting the issues faced by migrants and refugees.
Tasmania’s Community Services Minister Roger Jaensch was at the walk’s launch, saying our island is home to “thousands of people from countries right across the world who enrich our communities”.
“[We’re] investing $500,000 over two years to address racism and foster social cohesion across Tasmania.”
He said $70,000 from the investment will go towards meeting the demand for additional counselling and support services for the next two years.
“The remaining $400,000 will be allocated through a competitive grants program to address racism and foster social cohesion through local, place-based partnerships,” he said.
“I wish Peter safe travels on his walk and congratulate the migrant and refugee community for showcasing their community and sharing their stories.”
Gutwein is aiming to raise $50,000 for the Migrant Resource Centre through the walk, which will take around 7 days to complete.
