Andy and Scrubby’s Big WAG
Which is considered more difficult: walking 15,000 km across Australia or overcoming a gambling addiction?
This is the story of Andy Hope – and it’s just the beginning!
Over the weekend, Eva Greifeneder, host of Monday Daily on 2SER, had the opportunity to sit down and chat with the inspiring Andy Hope, who is embarking on a 15,000km walk across Australia to raise awareness for problem gambling and mental health.
Andy and Scrubby’s major Walk Against Gambling (WAG) will lead them across Australia to tackle one of the nation’s most pressing problems — gambling.
Australia’s population accounts for less than 1% of the world’s total, yet it has 18% of the world’s slot machines, according to the Australian Institute, making it one of the largest gambling markets globally.
New South Wales is home to approximately 90,000 machines, equivalent to one machine for every 88 people.
Andy has experienced some significant losses in his life due to a gambling addiction. After 42 years of destruction, facing major wins followed by major setbacks, he ultimately decided to turn his life around in August 2024.
Andy pledged to walk around Australia, starting his journey on August 9th, which coincided with his 60th birthday.
Last Saturday, Andy walked from Newport Beach to Manly and finished the weekend with another walk across the Harbour Bridge. So far, Andy has covered over 600 kilometers of Australia and raised nearly $5,000 for Lifeline North Coast in just three weeks!
(Pictured above) Andy sharing a cuddle with his Cavoodle, Scrubby.
If you or someone you know needs support, please call Lifeline’s helpline at 13 11 13.
You can follow Andy and Scrubby’s journey on Facebook / Instagram (@andyandscrubbysbigwag).
Make a donation through Lifeline North Coast here.
