LtoR: Eddie Szczepanik (Wattle Grove), Sharyn Mitchell (Halls Head), George Szczepanik (Kewdale), David Murray (Maddington). All part of the Usher Army.
Camera IconLtoR: Eddie Szczepanik (Wattle Grove), Sharyn Mitchell (Halls Head), George Szczepanik (Kewdale), David Murray (Maddington). All part of the Usher Army. Credit: Supplied/Elle Borgward

Bibbulmun Track is firmly in their sights

Staff ReporterHills Avon Valley Gazette

The group, comprising Wattle Grove’s Eddie Szczepanik, David Murray, George Szczepanik, Sharyn Mitchell and Greg Locock, all have Usher syndrome, a relatively rare genetic disorder that results in a combination of hearing loss and visual impairment.

‘The most important aspect we want to get across regarding this condition is the fact that even though we are labelled as deafblind, the more accurate description is low vision and hearing,’ Ms Mitchell said.

The group, whose members met through Usher Syndrome Support Group WA, plan to walk the 1000km track in August next year with the help of a support team.

‘We are training every fortnight on the Bibbulmun Track itself, not only to increase fitness but to get used to the track’s unique environment and rough terrains,’ Ms Mitchell said.

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‘Uneven terrain is the ultimate enemy of anyone who suffers from vision loss.’

The group is calling for volunteers to fill a range of roles, such as being a sight guide or organising fundraisers.

Visit defyingadversity.com.