Canberra Times - Harvey a hit on the road

- Jessica White

10.06.2007

Last 1km to Capital Hill

An Irishman accompanied by an imaginary friend and a fluro-orange wheelchair has found a unique way to push for peace.

Frank Muldowney, origionally from Dublin, plans to walk across the globe, pushing an empty wheelchair, to spread the message of world peace.

Mr Muldowney arrived in Canberra yesterday after setting out from Perth in April 2006. The wheelchair was symbolic of a world disabled by war, racism and injustice and carried an important load, according to Mr Muldowney.

"I created Harvey, an imaginary leader for peace and kindness, who you can only see by the presence of his orange wheelchair. harvey is the peacemakerwho can be a member of any race religion or creed," he said.

Mr Muldowney had visited several schools in Victoria in an attempt to raise awareness of human rights.

"These are the leaders of the world's future. I chat to them a little about the journey and they go crazy over Harvey. Kids have great imaginations and they are full of hope," he said.

Mr Muldowney said there had been people who had questioned his sanity.

"One of the most enjoyable parts so far has been walking across the Nullarbor. The trucks gave me a thrill and a bit more energy each time they passed, but more than once I was offered the number of a psychiatrist" he said.

His arrival in Canberra, had been timed to coincide with the Dalai Lama's visit and Mr Muldowney said he shared the Tibetan's philosophies.

At the press conference in Press Club, Canberra