Taking on the tropical blight

By Shaun Inguanzo
DANDENONG’S own crusader against malaria is pumping iron at age 78 to ensure he is strong enough to swim and raise money to purchase mosquito nets for countries devastated by the disease.
Tony Linossi, a member of the Rotary Club of Dandenong, will swim with son Alex next April at the Dandenong Oasis to complete his role in the World Swim Against Malaria global fundraiser.
Mr Linossi admits his doctor was concerned when he asked for clearance to work-out at the Dandenong Oasis to gain strength for the swim.
Mr Linossi suffered a stroke in June 2005 and has been caring for his cancer-stricken wife while selflessly preparing for the fundraiser.
He hits the gym with son Alex as early as 7am where he walks on the treadmill, uses the rowing machine and pumps iron with dumbbells.
He is currently battling an ear infection and is overcoming a recurring pain in his Achilles tendon, which he strained two years ago when leaping out of the way of a speeding car that nearly struck him in central Dandenong.
But the biggest pain in his side is not personal injury – it is the Australian Tax Office – which Mr Linossi said was holding up the World Swim Against Malaria’s ability to guarantee Mr Linossi’s sponsors that donations are tax deductible.
Mr Linossi said he was certain more people would donate if they could be assured that large amounts could be retrieved come tax time.
“A lot of people are prepared to donate $20, $30, $40 or $50 if they know they can claim it on tax – just as they can with any other charity or organisation.”
Despite the hold up, Mr Linossi said the Dandenong community had been overwhelmingly generous, already pitching in more than $8000 for the cause.
Early this year he told the Star he was hoping to raise $5000 by April next year.
To donate to Mr Linossi’s cause visit www.worldswimformalaria.com/tonylinossi.