By Charlene Gatt
IF YOU fall off your bike, pick it up and get back on, the old adage goes.
Larissa MacFarlane is doing just that.
The Seddon artist will cycle 540 kilometres around Vietnam in July to raise money for Disability Sport and Recreation, an organisation that creates recreational and sporting opportunities for people with disabilities.
It’s a cause that’s close to Ms MacFarlane’s heart.
The 41-year-old was hit by a car 13 years ago, leaving her with brain injuries that to this day blur her memory.
“I am passionate about building strong and creative communities that are inclusive of people of all abilities,” she said.
“My car accident 13 years ago involved not only a brain injury, but also my beloved bicycle…it took seven years to get back on the bicycle and the last six years to build the confidence and strength to undertake this 540km Vietnam challenge.”
Ms MacFarlane hopes to raise $6000 for the challenge.
During her recovery, she also discovered an interest in art, and has been exhibiting for the past six years.
Last year she won the Wyndham Contemporary Arts Prize and was shortlisted as a finalist in the State Trustees connected10 awards.
She is doing her bit by donating 50 per cent of all sales at her current art exhibition at the Cocoa Latte Café in Williamstown.
Ms MacFarlane also runs the annual Snapshots of Seddon photography competition.
To sponsor Ms MacFarlane, go to www.everydayhero.com.au/larissa_macfarlane
