Taking the trek in their stride

THROUGH cold, wet, and windy conditions, two teams of hot-stepping Ballarat mums are out and about, training for a walkathon that will bring the heat.

The Blister Sistas and The Hotsteppers are taking part in Brisbane Coastrek on Friday, 15 July, respectively hiking 30 and 60 kilometres along the beaches, trails, and roads of the Sunshine Coast.

Blister Sista, Megan Vila Pouca, said the sold out fundraising initiative shines a light on mental health and supports charity Beyond Blue.

“Three million people in Australia are currently experiencing anxiety and depression, and an average of nine people sadly take their own life daily, so Beyond Blue as an independent not-for-profit are trying to reduce the impact of depression, anxiety and suicide across the country,” she said.

Joining Ms Vila Pouca, are Lisa Warland, Rebecca Perks, and Eliza Hopkinson, while The Hotsteppers’ crew includes Mel Corfee, Elise Middleton, Erin Fletcher, and Rhona Wilson.

“We’ve found over the last two years that walking has been a way for us to stay socially connected, and Coastrek has motivated us to stay fit and healthy, and protect our own mental health as a team,” Ms Vila Pouca said.

“We’re ready to challenge ourselves personally, and keen to do something that benefits the wider community and Australia as a whole.

“During COVID, mental health has impacted everyone in many ways, and it has been shining a light on why the services, like Beyond Blue’s, are needed.”

Visit bit.ly/3MCh0HM and bit.ly/3Mu2vpy to support the teams, which are each required to raise at least $2000 before they set off next month.