Royce Simmons embarks on 320km walk for dementia research

Former Penrith premiership captain Royce Simmons has commenced his fifth annual Big Walk to raise funds for dementia research. Diagnosed with early-onset dementia in his early 60s, Simmons described the progressive nature of the disease, noting that his memory is declining and he experiences periodic setbacks or “dips” in his condition.

The 320km trek aims to support the approximately 446,500 Australians living with dementia and fund two specific research programs. This year’s walk honors the late Panthers player John Farragher, who became a quadriplegic following a scrum collapse during his early career.

Simmons’ journey began in Gilgandra and includes treks through Dubbo and Obley, with a planned finish in Cowra. Several rugby league figures, including Brad Fittler, James Maloney, John Skandalis, and Tony Butterfield, are scheduled to join him for portions of the walk.