Almost 1000 walkers trekked through the Wombat State Forest this month, raising funds for children with illness and disabilities.
In its fifth year, the Great Aussie Hike challenged participants to hike up to 100 kilometres through the forest, raising funds for Variety the Children’s Charity.
Variety assists children with illness and disabilities through the provision of grants, scholarships, programs, and children’s events.
Hike founder Anna Kelly said that what started as a one-off event to boost the community’s spirit following Covid lockdowns and the 2020 Gippsland bushfires has become an annual event.
“The Great Aussie Hike is all about the great Aussie spirit of mates looking after each other, getting outside and active, while supporting the incredible work of Variety the Children’s Charity,” Ms Kelly said.
A local Rapid Relief Team was there every step of the way to assist walkers, and local team leader James Thomas said 30 volunteers served 2000 meals and refreshments across the two-day event.
“We kept hikers energised and hydrated with muesli cups and fruit, our signature burgers, sausage sandwiches … chicken wraps, barista made coffee, and plenty of bottles of water,” Mr Thomas said.
“The Great Aussie Hike is a great initiative that brings people together for a great cause, sharing a spirit of adventure and enjoying the beautiful setting of Wombat State Forest,” he said.
Ms Kelly said that the Great Aussie Hike organisation is “grateful for the amazing support we get every year” from the Rapid Relief Team and “we couldn’t do this without them.”
The Rapid Relief Team is the charitable arm of the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church.
