Flinders graduate Andrew Dallimore’s fundraising cycle ride from Adelaide to Melbourne will not only contribute to the welfare of animals overseas, but will also visit six rural schools along the way to spread the word about the benefits of continuing education.

Andrew (pictured) began his ride today (February 4), setting out from Flinders University Victoria Square. Proceeds from the 18-day ride will go to the Worldwide Veterinary Service (WVS), a not-for-profit organisation that funds volunteers, materials and training to support animal welfare providers in overseas countries.

En route along the coast road, Andrew will call into four South Australian and two Victorian high schools where he will meet and talk with students to offer encouragement to those who may be at risk of disengaging from their schooling, with the aim of inspiring them to consider pursuing continuing education to achieve their aspirations.

Andrew, who was classified as an ‘at risk’ student at his own high school, completed a Bachelor of Medical Science at Flinders, with a double specialisation in Microbiology and Nutrition, and a high Grade Point Average. During his studies, he acted as a mentor to struggling students at several South Australian high schools.

Andrew was prompted to begin ‘The Gentle Way Campaign’ after being seriously injured in a Judo competition. He took up the sport in response to severe bullying, another challenge he will discuss with students.

During 2012, Andrew spoke to more than 500 South Australian school students, and said he was “pumped” for the second half of the campaign. In South Australia he will visit high schools at Victor Harbor, Meningie, Millicent and Mount Gambier; in Victoria he will visit Portland Bay College and Apollo Bay P12 College.

“The whole reason why this campaign has been launched is to show young adults that no matter what they come up against, they can still go for their goals. Often, if students don’t hear about it, then they won’t try,” Andrew said.

Andrew has just been admitted into one of 60 Commonwealth funded places in the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree at the University of Melbourne, achieving one of his own most heart-felt ambitions.

Elite SA triathlete Chris Wigell, who has been acting as Andrew’s coach, joined the first stage of the ride to Flinders University’s main Bedford Park campus.

Further information on Andrew’s campaign and ride can be found at the website http://thegentleway.org/