about

meet Simon"Bucky" Baccanello

Bucky always brought mates together, encouraging good health and wellbeing. He still is – and you can be part of it. Bucky was always interesting, but more importantly, interested: Interested in the world around him. Interested in the people around him.

In May 2023, beloved teacher and community member Simon Baccanello (Bucky) was surfing at Walkers Rock near Elliston (South Australia) when he was attacked by a shark and tragically disappeared. He made a positive difference, not only in Elliston which held a very special place in his heart, but across the world – in the UK, Italy, Switzerland, Germany and Bali.

Described as adored by students and staff and known for the positive impact he had on the Elliston and wider Eyre Peninsula community, Bucky brought enthusiasm and positivity to everything he did.

Simon brought connection, kindness and positive change wherever he went.
His loss has been deeply felt across the Eyre Peninsula, especially by the students, staff and families of Elliston Area School.

Elliston and the surrounding communities are still hurting, compounded by five more shark attacks in the 18 months after Bucky left us.

our purpose

We aim to honour the way Simon Baccanello "Bucky" lived, and left us, by helping rebuild the shattered wellbeing of South Australian west coast communities – especially the children.

This fundraising effort has one clear purpose; to build a much-needed community gymnasium in Elliston for young people who have been asking for safe, healthy activities after school. Being a small rural town, creating facilities like this is challenging and relies on collective effort, leadership and generosity. Bucky cared deeply about wellbeing, fitness and the local community, making this project a fitting legacy.

This is a chance to create something meaningful and lasting. Something that reflects who Bucky was, what he valued and the positive impact he had on others. Your support will help turn this vision into a reality for the young people of the Elliston community.

For those who knew and loved Bucky, this relay run is also a journey of remembrance and healing that retraces the connection between Adelaide and the coastal community where Bucky made such a profound impact.

Paddle-out at Walkers Rock, Elliston.

Bucky's family at his memorial firepit

our GOAL

Our goal is to raise at least $300,000 to help build a multipurpose gymnasium for the Elliston Area School, where Bucky taught, which will be a hub for the broader community too.

Support our cause by sponsoring a Relay Runner (“Fundraising Hero”) or by making an outright donation – both options are welcome.

All funds raised will go directly to the District Council of Elliston and will be used solely for the development of the new gym.
*All donations are tax deductable.

our Challenge - the relay

To honour Bucky’s genuine care for the wellbeing of young people and his strong connection to Elliston, his friends and family are organising a charity relay run from Adelaide to Elliston on 14-18 July 2026.

A team of runners will share the 720-kilometre journey in relay, supported by volunteers along the way, finishing in Elliston where Bucky spent so much of his time inspiring others.

The RoutE  

Day 1: Tues 14 July

Adelaide (St Ignatius, Athelstone) to Spalding 

Day 2: Wed 15 July

Spalding to Port Augusta 

Day 3: Thurs 16 July

Port Augusta to Cowell 

Day 4: Fri 17July

Cowell to Polda 

Day 5: Sat 18 July

Polda to Elliston