OPTUS URGES AUSSIES TO SEND A #HIGH5 TO THE PARALYMPIC TEAM

Donate $5 to support their road to Rio.

Paralympic greats Ahmed Kelly (Swimming), Ellie Cole (Swimming), Richard Colman (Athletics), Emma Booth (Equestrian) and Shawn Russell (Wheelchair Basketball) officially launched Optus’ #High5 a Paralympian fundraising campaign today at the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre.

As the official support network of the Australian Paralympic Team, Optus is leading a nation-wide fundraising initiative by asking Aussies to make a $5 donation to send 170 Paralympic athletes from 15 sports to Rio.

The Australian Paralympic Committee requires significant financial support to send the Team to the Rio Paralympic Games, with an average cost of $40,000 per athlete, which covers everything from flights, medical support, equipment and accommodation and more.

Lynne Anderson, Chief Executive Officer, Australian Paralympic Committee is thrilled to have Optus’ support and is encouraging others to help Australian athletes realise their Paralympic dream.

“Every Australian Paralympic athlete heading to Rio has worked relentlessly to rise to the top and represent Australia at the pinnacle event of their sport – the Paralympic Games.

“As a registered charity, the Australian Paralympic Committee relies on the generous support of Australians to send our athletes to the Games, which is why we’re urging Australians to get behind our athletes with a small donation that will make a real difference,” Ms Anderson said.

Wheelchair basketballer, Shawn Russell is just one athlete who understands the importance of fundraising to support his dreams.

“It’s been a pretty overwhelming road to Rio, but I’m excited to finally be able to compete in the Paralympics. We’re so grateful for the generous backing of Australians whose support allows us to compete at the Games,” Shawn said.

How can I make a donation?

Text #high5 to 1999 8787 and donate $5 with every SMS. You’ll get a free SMS letting you know your $5 donation has been successful, and you’ll see the charge on your next bill.

Donations are made via Premium SMS, and are available on eligible plans, except Optus prepaid.

Donations will be collected via the Telco Together Foundation’s SMS fundraising program which is supported by Australia’s leading telcos including Optus, Telstra and Vodafone.

To find out more, visit https://www.paralympic.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/PSMS-DONATIONS.pdf

About Telco Together

Launched in July 2012, Telco Together Foundation is a registered charity that brings together the telecommunications industry in support of Australian communities in need. The core focus of the Foundation’s work is the development of community projects that build on the technology, reach and capabilities of the telecommunications industry to support the not for profit sector of Australia, as well as promoting fundraising, volunteering and workplace giving across member organisations.

Media enquiries:

Gabrielle Crittenden

Optus Corporate Affairs

media@optus.com.au
Tel: (02) 8082 7850

Steph Jones, Thrive PR

03 9425 9111 | 0481 566 386

stephanie.jones@thrivepr.com.au