Walking for My Sins & The Sins and Pain of Others

By Peter Simmonds

I'm challenging myself!

This year, I’m taking on the ACRF Challenge by embarking on a solo journey of 760 kilometres across France, following the ancient pilgrimage route from Le Puy to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port (SJPP) — one of the historic Camino de Santiago routes leading to Santiago de Compostela.

Like pilgrims have done for centuries, I’ll carry everything I need on my back. But I’ll also be carrying something far more meaningful: the hopes, burdens, and symbolic "sins" entrusted to me by others, as an act of support for those who are unable to make the journey themselves. This pilgrimage is my way of helping to carry the weight of a disease that affects so many families, while raising vital funds for the Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF).

Cancer impacts us all. In fact, 2 in 5 Australians will be diagnosed with cancer before the age of 85. By supporting my journey, you'll be helping ACRF fund world-class research that is transforming the way we prevent, diagnose and treat all types of cancer, bringing us closer to a world without cancer.

Two years ago, I walked the 800-kilometre Camino Francés across northern Spain, beginning in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, I managed to raise a tad under  $10,000 for cancer research. Thanks to the incredible generosity of friends, family and supporters, every step became an opportunity to make a difference.

Throughout this journey, I'll once again share daily updates and photos on Facebook so you can follow my progress, the beautiful landscapes, and the people I meet along the way. When I arrive in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, I'll continue the centuries-old tradition of seeking absolution for the symbolic burdens I've carried—both my own and those entrusted to me by others.

Every donation, no matter the size, helps fund Australia's brightest cancer researchers with the cutting-edge technology they need to make life-saving discoveries. Your support means giving hope to the people who need it most—someone you know, someone you love, your family, your friends, your community, or perhaps even yourself.

Thank you for supporting my journey and for helping bring us one step closer to a world without cancer.

Thank you to my Sponsors

$2k

Tim Crommelin

Good luck on your journey Peter

$350

Excercise Class Gals

From all the gals at exercise class. Good luck.

$265

Sue And Graham Moore

good luck Peter a very worthy cause

$265

Trish

For the love of Janey. A noble endeavor Peter. With you in spirit. Bon chance Mon Ami xx

$215

Ann Mccallum

A big adventure ahead !! Looking forward to tracking your progress. Every little bit helps.

$215

Bernadette & Max

Good luck Peter

$200

Lorraine Stephenson

Peter, enjoy yourself, good luck and travel safely. Lorraine

$200

Gary

Well done Peter & very best wishes on your challenge & journey

$133.44

Brett Greenland

Safe travels Peter 🙏

$133.44

Kirby Family

We are thinking of you, Peter! Sending ❤️

$125

Janet

Mr S Just love your heart behind doing this. You are a legend and a hero. May you stay well and safe on your walk I pray

$106.75

Flynn Family 💓

All the best on the journey Pete you are amazing 🤩

$106.75

Anonymous

$106.75

Guy Waddingham

Good effort Peter; I’m sure it will be a life enhancing experience. Janie would be proud !

$100

Bev & Peter Gym Class

Good luck.

$60

Gym Class Gals ..

Peter, good luck on your venture, we will be thinking of you.

$55.95

Gary Coward

I hope the old limbs are still up to it and the soul benefits as much as the charity.

$55.95

Liz From Exercise Class

Good luck Pete you are doing an amazing thing here Stay safe

$55.95

Kate Crompton

Best of Luck!

$55.95

Bev K

Safe travels Peter, made in memory of my sister Kay

$55.95

Marilyn Jackson

Safe travels Peter and enjoy your journey.

$50

Samantha Laidlaw And Family

In memory of beautiful Mama. Safe onward journey of 10,000 steps (and the rest!). X

$50

Warrick

Peter, safe travels.

$50

Chloe Simmonds

In memory of Janie & my dad, both taken too soon ❤️

$30

John Bennet

Good luck, we will miss you at class! Not..