Rising star Harry Cunningham has thrown his support behind Andrew Rust and Jay Allen who will walk 900km from Sydney to Melbourne to raise awareness of melanoma.

Rust and Allen will commence their ‘900KMFORACURE’ walk this Friday when they take the first steps of their long journey which will conclude at half-time of the Sydney Swans and Hawthorn match at the MCG on July 26.

It will be a significant walk for Rust and Allen who have both battled melanoma throughout their lifetime.

Six years ago, Allen was diagnosed with a stage III melanoma, whilst Rust was diagnosed with stage IV melanoma 11 years ago.

Walking a distance of this significance is a challenge to any able person, and even more challenging for two men with the pre-existing medical conditions like lymphoedema.

During the walk, the duo will stop in at a number of country towns and community events to educate people on the dangers of melanoma, being safe in the sun and how to get checked and treated.

“It’s going to be great, we want to raise awareness and speak to as many people as possible (while on the walk). If we can save one life out of this whole journey it will be worth it,” Allen said.

Cunningham, who grew up in Wagga Wagga, one of the country towns Rust and Allen will visit on the walk, said it’s a cause he is proud to support.

“It’s a really great initiative to get the message out there of the dangers of melanoma and something everyone at the Swans is really pleased to get behind,” Cunningham said.

“We wish Andrew and Jay all the best on the walk and look forward to seeing them at the ‘G in a couple of weeks’ time.”


It is hoped over $150,000 will be raised for the ‘900KMFORACURE’ walk with the money going towards funding research to find a cure for the disease.

To donate, visit http://www.everydayhero.com.au/event/900KMFORACURE2014   

The walk will commence this Friday July 11 at 6:15am at the Melanoma Institute Australia (40 Rocklands Rd, North Sydney).