RUN FERRIS RUN – IN SHARK-INFESTED WATERS
IT has been a rocky start to an epic journey for a traveller embarking on a 2000km unassisted water trek to Cairns, using his own two feet.
Byron Bay’s Ben Ferris, known to most as just Ferris, 35, is passing through the Gold Coast this week on his voyage north. The vessel, a Mirage Eclipse, is not motorised, meaning Ferris must pedal the entire way, at the mercy of the elements.
Just four days in, he has encountered broken handlebars, pushy winds and even a call-out from the rescue helicopter, with the promise of shark and crocodile-infested waters still to come. But despite the setbacks Ferris said he was determined to complete his two-month voyage.
“There are really high moments and really low moments, but I’m really enjoying being out there with no cars and no pollution,” he said. “It’s what I’ve been dreaming about for three years.”
Camping ashore at night, armed with a satellite phone, handheld radio and food supplies, Ferris has been covering around 25km a day. He is hoping to find a safety boat crew to help escort him.
Ferris is using his voyage to raise money for Seabin, a charity which aims to clean up the oceans. Locals can follow the journey at the RunferrisrunN Facebook page or donate on the Run Ferris Run On Water Go Fund Me page.