Surf Coast Trek celebrates a decade of positive community impact

THE Surf Coast Trek will return on April 5 as it celebrates 10 years of making a significant difference in the Geelong community.

Raising vital funds for Kids+ and Give Where You Live Foundation, the trek has been instrumental in providing support where it is needed the most.

To date, $2.1 million has been raised, a testament to the power of community and the impact that can be made when people come together.

The trek takes participants along the Great Ocean Road, with the choice to take part in the 40km distance from Aireys Inlet or 26km from Anglesea to Torquay.

Mum of three Sonia Cheema has been with Kids+ since her sons Max and Kai were newborns, both having a rare genetic neuromuscular condition affecting fewer than 20 kids globally.

Kids+ was pivotal in guiding and supporting the family through early genetic testing and NDIS funding processes for both children.

“We saw many specialists who felt we would never find out what was going on,” Ms Cheema said.

“Max had multiple surgeries and went through a tough time. He wanted to fit in with his peers but he just couldn’t.

“He struggled with confidence. As ex-pats we didn’t have support in Australia from family.

“Watching them (Max and Kai) do things they never thought they could like (Kids+ programs) Surf Ed, Bike Ed and 2km Surf Coast Trek has given them confidence and independence. It makes them smile.”

Ms Cheema said school can be quite sports focused with activities such as cross-country, something Max will never be able to participate in.

“When we did the 2km Surf Coast Trek, his legs were burning by the time he crossed the finish line, but when he got that medal, he was so happy. He took it straight into school,” she said. “Kids like Max and Kai, they don’t get medals.”

To register and for more information, head to surfcoasttrek.com.au.

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