George Plemenuk was a man who left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. This June, the community of Nebo will come together to honour his legacy through Cause for George, a heartfelt fundraiser and horse event created by his family to celebrate his life and raise awareness for Motor Neurone Disease (MND PBP).
Geroge’s family did everything they could to keep things normal, using humour, routine and connection to preserve his independence and dignity.
“We’d joke with him and say things like ‘we need the practice’ or ‘let me do that, I need the exercise’ just to keep things light and make him feel like he was still the one in charge,” shared George’s daughter Georgia.
One of George’s greatest joys was riding horses, and the family made sure he could do it for as long as possible.
“Even when it got hard for him to climb up, I would help boost him onto his stock horse. It brought him so much fulfilment.”
As the end neared, George became emotional, worried about leaving the farm and his family behind. But they promised him they would carry on.
“We told him we’d keep working the farm and that he’d always be here, just not in person.”
Cause for George was born from the need to honour that promise and keep his memory alive. The event includes a horse competition, a men’s barrel race and an ironman challenge, all the things George loved.
“He would’ve competed in the barrel race. It’s a way to celebrate who he was and what he loved including farm life, lots of laughter and everyone coming together as one.”
There will be live music from his nieces and nephews, a photo slideshow and speeches from people still fighting MND. George’s full story will be shared to remind others that they are not alone and that MND does not define who someone is.
The event also supports the broader work of the MND and Me Foundation. The Foundation’s mission is To Care & To Cure – enabling access to care services, equipment and support regardless of age or location. They rely solely on community and corporate support, receiving no Government funding, so events like Cause for George truly have a huge impact.
Sponsorship from local businesses and individuals has been key to making the event possible. Greater Whitsunday Vet Services, Horton Diesel, Mackay Solicitors, European Prestige, Easy Lift Operations in Nebo, Buma and Kids at the Beach daycare, Cane Country Tyres, P and D Industrial, Mick’s Computer Service, Cmac Solutions, MC Butchery, Collinsville Community Centre, Vella Farming and Etwell Cleaning.
Georgia also acknowledged the tireless support of the Plemenuk and Bowser families, along with family friends like Anna Woodhouse and Harry Horspool.
“Personally, this event is an honour. To have been raised by this incredible man is every child’s dream. I feel beyond privileged to have had him in my life.
“I want this event to be bigger and better every year. I want people living with MND to feel special again, never different.
“MND isn’t who people are. Just because someone can’t speak doesn’t mean you shouldn’t talk to them. Be the same person you were when you first met them. Understand how hard this disease is and help contribute to finding a cure.
“And remember that George was one of a kind, an exceptional man who will be spoken about for years to come.”
| If you’d like to support Cause for George consider attending the event on June 14 at the Nebo Undercover Arena. To learn more about the MND and Me Foundation or to contribute, visit: mndandme.com.au |
