TO MARK his 60th birthday, local Andy Hope is setting off on a walk around Australia to take a stand against the gambling addiction that’s taken a heavy toll on his life.
Starting in Coffs Harbour on 9 August, Andy will walk with only essentials in a trailer such as food, a change of clothes, a swag, and his best mate Scrubby – a loyal dog who’s been by his side through the highs and lows.
Together, they’re WAG or “Walk Against Gambling”.
Andy has battled a gambling addiction for over 40 years, a struggle that has cost him his marriage and mental health.
“It’s been 42 years of hell and destruction,” he said.
“I reached a point where I sold my car to pay debts and then turned around and put the $800 straight back into the pokies. “That was rock bottom.”
The walk then started as a quiet idea, perhaps a simple trip to Sydney.
“I mentioned it to a mate, and he just laughed and said, ‘That’s the sort of stupid thing you’d do.’ And I thought, yeah, maybe it is.”
Inspired by Garth and Max, another duo who are currently walking across Australia to raise awareness for mental health, Andy reached out when they were in Coffs.
“We ended up talking all night. I had so many questions. That chat was a turning point for me.”
At the time, Andy was unfit, overweight, and facing multiple health issues.
But he got organised and saw all sorts of experts including podiatrists, dieticians, exercise physiologists and a sports physio to build strength and stamina.
“I had to build up my core just to pull the trailer,” he said.
Andy has also written a book, yet unpublished, about his gambling journey.
Consisting of four ample volumes, each ends in relapse.
He hopes the next volume will be the last.
Andy is raising funds for Lifeline North Coast and wants to spark conversations along the way with people who are struggling, or who have loved ones caught in addiction.
He’s not walking to change government policy, though he believes gambling legislation and advertising need urgent reform. Instead, he’s focusing on what he can change – starting with himself.
“I just want to show people that it’s possible.
“If I can do this, maybe someone else can make their own change, no matter how small.”
His own mantra, and advice for others, is “If nothing changes, nothing changes”.
“Even one small change can help get your life back.
“Talk to a friend. Walk around the block. Watch the sunset. Make your bed. Volunteer. But do something.”
General Manager of Lifeline North Coast Angela Martin, said Andy’s commitment is inspiring.
“Andy is walking to raise awareness of gambling harm, suicide and mental health and to give hope to others,” she said.
“His journey will change lives, starting right here in our community.”
Andy expects the journey to take about two years.
He’s not worried about not having hot meals or showers but will gladly accept any hospitality along the way, and of course, friendly chats.
Everyone’s welcome to come along to a farewell BBQ on Saturday 9 August at 8am at the Jetty Foreshore.
He can also be followed on Facebook @AndyandScrubbysbigwag.
For support: call Lifeline on 6651 4093, which also provides specialist gambling counselling services through GambleAware.
To join a local gambling support group, call Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre on 6648 3694.
By Leigh WATSON
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