Michael Giacometti to attempt the first east-to-west foot crossing of the Simpson Desert
In June/July this year, Michael Giacometti will attempt to become the first person to walk across the Simpson Desert from east to west, solo and unsupported, and not using any vehicle tracks.
He plans to walk from Bedourie (Qld) to Mt Dare (SA) through the centre of the desert, covering 485km in 24 days, towing a 30kg aluminium cart with up to 150kg of water, food and equipment. The route has not been attempted before because it climbs the steepest face of every one of the 1000 sand ridges, some of which are up to 20 metres high.
Why is he doing it?
Asked why he is attempting such an expedition, Mr Giacometti replied: ‘I feel compelled to do it, and the more I plan it, the more compelling it becomes. I know that the physical and mental demands will be extreme. It will be the hardest walk I’ve ever done. Yet I must do it.’
The expedition will aim to raise awareness of man’s impact on the earth, the footprint of our lifestyle. It will be a carbon negative expedition by making donations to carbon offset organisations for tree planting and green energy.
Mr Giacometti will also highlight water usage and conservation issues. He will use only 100 litres of water in three weeks, or 4 litres per day. That equates to just over one half-flush of the toilet per day. In three weeks he will use about half of what the average person uses in just one day!
How can I help?
Mr Giacometti is still seeking sponsorship which will assist in financing the expedition. Please refer to the expedition website for more details: www.hainsnet.com/michaelgiacometti/html
