by Gary Newton
Rotarian Ken Hutt from Berry, NSW plans to scale the world's highest mountain in May (weather permitting) before launching himself from near it’s icy peak.
The 62-year-old, who is passionate about eradicating polio, made the decision after successfully conquering a glide from Cho Oyu in Tibet six years ago.
"After flying from an 8,200-metre mountain, what else do you do? You've got to go higher, so Everest is the one.” Mr Hutt said. "The intention is to glide from as near to the summit as conditions will allow and fly back down to a town called Gorak Shep, which is the nearest village to Everest base camp.”
Ken Hutt will use oxygen during the climb and will be supported by an expedition team of ten others. The former police rescue officer is using the trip to raise funds for the Rotary Foundation to help eradicate polio.
Ken’s purpose-built glider will feature two logos-Rotary’s End Polio Now and Polio Australia’s logo to support their ‘We’re Still Here’ Campaign and create awareness of polio’s late effects. Only one other person is known to have successfully completed the glide from Mt. Everest in Nepal.
There is an exclusive opportunity for District 9780 clubs to hear Ken Hutt speak in person during February 9-23rd, 2022.
Contact Rotarian Gary Newton to make a booking at
