Penrith Panthers legend Royce Simmons to come through Bathurst in 300 kilometre-walk fundraiser for Alzheimer's disease

Simmons, who played over 200 games for the Panthers between 1980-1991, was diagnosed with the disease early this year.

In attempt to raise money, Simmons will set off from his hometown of Gooloogong near Cowra on May 17, making the almost 300 kilometre trek to Penrith Stadium on foot, arriving on May 27 for the round 12 NRL match between Panthers and North Queensland Cowboys.

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Simmons is set to arrive in Bathurst on May 21 and will continue on his journey the following day.

The 61-year-old revealed in January that he was last year told he was suffering from dementia (Alzheimer's disease) and soon after set about organising the walk to raise funds and awareness of dementia.

"The support has been unbelievable. From people in the street to former teammates and friends from within the game ... all over the place," Simmons said.

"When I'm just walking around the place (from Penrith to the foot of the Blue Mountains during daily training walks) people yell out encouragement, which is appreciated.

"At the Panthers' game at Bathurst (the round three clash with Newcastle at Carrington Park), I had to walk around the ground to do an interview and it took me forever because people wanted to chat and ask how they could help and give their support.

"I hope plenty come along to the events we have planned along the route because those funds will go to junior rugby league."

Simmons will arrive in Bathurst on the day that the old Bathurst Railway club will be hosting a reunion at a match between Bathurst Panthers and Cowra Magpies at Carrington Park.

Alongside former NRL stars Allan Langer, John Cartwright, Martin Lang and Barry Walker, Simmons will then attend a sportsman's dinner at the Panthers Bathurst Leagues Club.

He will then be heading off to Brewongle the next day following a Men of League golf day.

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