Dementia Australia is proud to welcome Woody Whitelaw as its newest Ambassador ahead of the Melbourne Memory Walk & Jog on Sunday 18 May.
Woody, who co-hosts the KIIS FM national radio drive show Will & Woody, has a strong personal connection to dementia, with all four of his grandparents having lived with the condition. Over the past two years, he has consistently demonstrated his commitment to raising awareness and showing support for people impacted by dementia.
“Dementia has touched every part of my family – all four of my grandparents lived with it,” Mr Whitelaw said.
“After seeing what it can do to people and those around them, I knew I wanted to do more – to help raise awareness, keep the conversation going and hopefully make things a little easier for the next family navigating a diagnosis.
“Becoming an Ambassador is a huge honour. Dementia Australia is doing incredible work, and I’m excited to be part of that.”
Woody has supported a number of Dementia Australia initiatives, including the Memory Walk & Jog campaign. He has attended and MCed past events, lent his voice to awareness campaigns, and regularly uses his radio and social media platforms to encourage understanding and support for people impacted by dementia.
As well, in 2023, Woody chose Dementia Australia as his charity when appearing on I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! using the platform to share his family’s experience and highlight the importance of dementia awareness.
He will return to Princes Park on Sunday 18 May as co-MC of the 2025 Melbourne Memory Walk & Jog alongside fellow Ambassador Takaya Honda.
Dementia Australia CEO Professor Tanya Buchanan said Woody’s energy and authenticity would continue to make a positive impact.
“Woody’s willingness to share his story and his ongoing dedication to our cause is inspiring,” Professor Buchanan said.
“He connects with people in a very genuine way and we’re delighted to officially welcome him as an Ambassador.”
The Memory Walk & Jog series brings communities together to raise vital funds and awareness to support people living with dementia, their families and carers. To find a Memory Walk & Jog event near you, or to sign up, visit memorywalk.com.au.
To read more about Dementia Australia’s Patrons and Ambassadors visit dementia.org.au.
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Dementia Australia is the source of trusted information, education and services for the estimated more than 433,300 Australians living with dementia, and the more than 1.7 million people involved in their care. We advocate for positive change and support vital research. We are here to support people impacted by dementia, and to enable them to live as well as possible. No matter how you are impacted by dementia or who you are, we are here for you.
For support, please contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500. An interpreter service is available. The National Dementia Helpline is funded by the Australian Government. People looking for information can also visit dementia.org.au
Media contacts: Gabrielle Prabhu, 0447 253 583, [email protected]
When talking or writing about dementia please refer to Dementia-Friendly Language Guidelines.
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If this story has prompted any questions or concerns, please call the National Dementia Helpline 1800 100 500 (24 hours, 7 days a week) or visit dementia.org.au.