SUPERMAN star Christopher Reeve has said he hoped his fundraising efforts would benefit those disability groups critical of his pending visit to Australia. The actor, who was paralysed in a horseriding accident seven years ago, will speak at NSW Premier Bob Carr's spinal injury forum and at a fundraising dinner for a research institute at the end of January. But the Physical Disability Council of NSW said news of the forum had surprised people with disabilities, who wondered how it would address present needs. The council said a maximum 10,000 people in Australia lived with a spinal cord injury, while 1.5 million had a physical disability and waiting lists for services were lengthy and housing and transport inaccessible. NSW taxpayers will foot the $135,000 bill for Reeve's visit, while Qantas will donate the cost of turning the first class section of one of its jets into a makeshift medical ward for Reeve. Reeve today reminded critics of the millions that had been raised by his own Christopher Reeve Paralysis Foundation (CRPF) for research into spinal disabilities. "Yes, there is a cost to fundraising unfortunately," he said. "But I do hope - considering the fact that our foundation (CRPF) in the last year raised about $US26 million ($46.55) - I hope that will translate to the benefit of those who are troubled by my coming to Australia." Reeve said he was dying to visit Australia after forgoing the opportunity for so many years while on his feet.. Reeve admitted it had been a big decision to take the long flight to Australia next month. "Yes it was," he told ABC Radio. "But ... I've wanted to come to Australia for so many years and I never took the opportunity when I was on my feet. "Even though this will be a little bit difficult, I'm dying to do it." Reports he had read about arrangements being made for his flights were exaggerated and the flight would not be such a physical strain, Reeve said. "I'll be in a regular seat, even though it's first class," he said. Source www.news.com.au ###