Fund-raising walk for tsunami victims

Australia's generous response to the Asian tsunami will continue on January 23, when cricketers and fans will join the "Cricketers Walk For Sri Lanka Tsunami Victims" around Sydney's Centennial Park to raise further funds for victims of the disaster.

The walk, partnered by Cricket NSW, Cricket Australia, the Sydney Cricket Ground Trust and Centennial Parklands, will lead up to the Australia-Pakistan one-dayer at the SCG. Among those who have said they will take part are Mark Waugh, Brendan Julian, Shane Lee, Michael Slater and Marvan Atapattu.

"The recent events in south-east Asia have made us all realise how fragile life is," said Michael Clarke. "If somehow cricketers can play a small part by supporting events such as this and help make a difference then I am proud to be involved."

Cricket fans of all ages - and their family and friends - have been invited to pitch in and join the cricketers. Community festivities have been planned as part of the event, including live entertainment and Sri Lankan food stalls in the park.

David Gilbert, the chief executive of Cricket NSW, said around 5000 to 10,000 people are expected to attend. "It's a fantastic cause that Cricket NSW is proud to support," he said. "The public can pledge their support by joining the walk, where they can meet the cricket stars and help raise the much-needed funds."

Proceeds from the walk will be directed towards the Sri Lanka Disaster Relief Fund, a registered charity committed to helping tsunami victims in Sri Lanka in need of aid, particularly the many children who have been orphaned.