Des Watts is a man on a mission.

The Past President of the Rotary Club of Berri (SA) wanted to help those less fortunate and so began an around-Australia quest on his trusty BMW R100 motorbike to raise awareness of the Rotary Shelter Box program.

Hitting the highway for a testing 23,000 kilometres, Mr Watts will visit most Rotary Districts to raise awareness of the humanitarian program that puts a much-needed roof over people’s heads.

This week, Toowoomba Regional Council Mayor Peter Taylor met Mr Watts on the Village Green opposite City Hall to hear more of the concept.

Cr Taylor was told a Shelter Box usually consists of 10 thermal blankets, a rugged 10-person dome tent, tools and other survival equipment and provides dry shelter, a warm bed, light and heat, clean water and cooking aids for up to 10 people.

Recent estimates have put the total figure of people assisted by Shelter Box at 600,000 with in excess of 38,000 boxes distributed following the natural disasters such as the Boxing Day Tsunami, Hurricane Katrina and Kashmir Earthquake.

Cr Taylor said Mr Watts deserved special praise for looking to make a significant difference in people’s lives.

“Here’s a man who isn’t just talking about doing something, he’s put up his hand and is literally taking his message to the streets,” Cr Taylor said.

“This is a wonderful gesture by Des to shine a spotlight on the plight of the homeless and to bring some hope to those suffering environmental or economic hardship.

“We wish him every success on his journey and hope that his efforts translate into ongoing community support. Des is a very determined man and I know he will do everything within his power to raise awareness of the program and reinforce the message that we can all play a part in helping those in need,” Cr Taylor said.

For more information about the Shelter Box program, visit the website www.shelterbox.org

Caption: Des Watts discusses his epic journey around Australia to bring awareness to the Rotary Shelter Box program with TRC Mayor Peter Taylor.