Australia’s former Agriculture and Forestry Minister, Joel Fitzgibbon, will run the 14km Sydney City 2 Surf this Sunday – all in a bid to raise awareness for Commando Welfare Trust.
Speaking to 2GB this morning, Mr Fitzgibbon – a former CEO of the Australian Forest Products Association, said he is doing the run for his son Lance Corporal Jack Fitzgibbon, who passed away after sustaining critical injuries during special forces training earlier this year.
To date Fitzgibbon family have set up a City2Surf Grass Rootz campaign, where they have already raised $76,787.
“Lance Corporal Jack Fitzgibbon was a dedicated, highly skilled soldier. Jack suffered critical injuries during special forces training at RAAF Base Richmond on 6th March 2024. That day, our lives changed forever!”
“Jack was a much loved and respected soldier in the Second Commando Regiment, part of the Special Operations Command. He was admired for his courage, modesty and his service to the country.”
“Jack was universally loved by his family and friends. He was unapologetically authentic, a loyal friend, he had an infectious sense of humour. Always the life of the party, he loved a beer, the footy and his mates!”
About the Commando Welfare Trust
The Commando Welfare Trust was established in 2010 to provide a perpetual safety net for Special Operations Command (SOCOMD) soldiers, veterans, and their families.
“Although there are many services available, they do not provide the level of assistance required to overcome the emotional and financial hardships these Australians invariably face,” the campaign page said. Given these shortfalls, they aim to provide immediate and ongoing financial support where the system cannot.
The Wood Central staff supports Joel with his efforts and wishes him all the best for Sunday!
