THE Great Aussie Hike is set to take place in Daylesford and the Wombat State Forest this April, with all proceeds going towards Beyond Blue.<\/p>\n
There will be a 30, 50 or 100 kilometre course available which is designed to challenge participants and help strengthen physical and mental health.<\/p>\n
Those who wish to take part can sign up as part of a team or individuals can join in a community group.<\/p>\n
A \u2018share the distance\u2019 option is also available where participants can either complete the entire course or swap sections with teammates.<\/p>\n
The event does not focus on speed or timing, with the aim to help participants achieve personal goals.<\/p>\n
All funds raised will go towards Beyond Blue\u2019s support service, which provides round the clock mental health support and care for Australians.<\/p>\n
“There\u2019s no better way to spend a day than with a few friends, hiking in the great outdoors and helping others at the same time,\u201d said Beyond Blue\u2019s clinical spokesperson Dr Grant Blashki.<\/p>\n
\u201cFunds raised by the Great Aussie Hike will help us deliver our support service, which is available to anyone free of charge.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe earlier people get support the quicker they will get back to feeling themselves again, so events like this can make a real difference in someone\u2019s life.\u201d<\/p>\n
The event was created during the COVID-19 lockdowns to help keep people connected and develop healthy habits.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe pandemic certainly taught us the power of community and how it influences our mental wellbeing,\u201d said Great Aussie Hike founder Anna Kelly.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt doesn\u2019t matter what distance you do or how your team gets to the finish line. It\u2019s all about mates supporting each other in a fun, positive environment.\u201d<\/p>\n