TAKE A HIKE for mental health
Registrations are currently open for the Great Aussie Hike with the annual event will take place from 24-25 March 2023 in Victoria’s beautiful Mornington Peninsula.
Great Aussie Hike is a “team challenge with a difference”. There is a way for everyone to participate regardless of their fitness, experience, or even if you do not have a team. For those participants who want to join the challenge, but do not have a team, “The Hitch Hikers” is a way to be part of the challenge, meet new people and find support in one another along the journey. This is one of the ways Great Aussie Hike promotes inclusivity and camaraderie amongst all the participants, whether they register as a group or on their own.
Participants can opt to tackle the 30km, 43km, 57km or 100km course as a registered team. There is also a unique ‘Share the Distance’ option where you can choose to either take on the entire course or swap sections with your teammates, embracing the spirit of mates looking after each other.
This year Great Aussie Hike has partnered with Lifeline as their charity partner. Lifeline is a national charity providing all Australians experiencing emotional distress with access to 24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention services.
According to Anna Brown, Program Director of Great Aussie Hike, it is the element of fun and mateship that keeps Australians returning and supporting the initiative.
“The pandemic has certainly taught us the power of community and how it influences our mental wellbeing. It doesn’t matter what distance you do or how your team gets to the finish line. It’s all about mates supporting each other in a fun, positive environment. This is evident when we see our teams spend the whole course chatting and laughing together,” said Ms Brown.
To register for Great Aussie Hike, visit www.greataussiehike.com.au. Places are limited.
If you, or someone you know are feeling overwhelmed, we encourage you to connect with Lifeline in the way you feel most comfortable. You can phone Lifeline to speak to a Crisis Supporter on 13 11 14 (24 hours/7 days), text 0477 131 114 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week) or chat to Lifeline online at www.lifeline.org.au (24/7)
Lifeline is Australia’s leading suicide prevention service, operating the 13 11 14 telephone line within 41 centres around the nation. The service expects to respond to over one million requests for support this year, creating an average of 120 safety plans to keep a person experiencing suicidal ideation safe every day.
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