The Youngcare Simpson Desert Challenge 2017 has been nominated as one of Northern Territory’s best events by industry experts
Selected as a Finalist by the Judging Panel through a rigorous reviewing process of hundreds of entries from around Australia, the panel determined that The Youngcare Simpson Desert Challenge 2017 was a stand-out in the Northern Territory in this year’s Australian Event Awards.
Now in its ninth year, the Awards are considered the most prestigious prize of its kind amongst industry leaders and event organisers from around the nation. The winners will be announced at a glamorous Awards Ceremony, at The Events Centre in Caloundra on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland on 13 September 2017.
Imagine a vast, rugged landscape, red plains, harsh weather and an endless horizon. Now picture trekking over 1,000 sand dunes, over 240km on foot, for eight days, carrying a 10kg backpack, living off ration packs and pushing through painful blisters. From 25 May – 4 June 2017, ten trekkers, one trek leader and a small support crew did just that and embarked on the test of a lifetime – the Youngcare Simpson Desert Challenge.
And it was for a very important reason. There are simply too many young people in Australia being left behind, living in inappropriate and unacceptable housing. It is an issue that spans the corners of the country, yet it’s so close to home. Youngcare is fighting to make a difference in the lives of young people with high care needs and the loved ones who care for them.
This Challenge was a daily mental and physical battle, but one that has a profound impact on the lives of young people in desperate need. In 2017, trekkers aged from 19 to 48, united by their commitment to fight for freedom of choice for young people with high care needs, raised over $290,000 to support Youngcare in leading much-needed change in the disability housing sector.
Co-chair of the Australian Event Awards Judging Panel, Sandy Hollway AO said, “The Awards puts a spotlight on the industry suppliers delivering incredible technical, design, marketing and other achievements, often behind the scenes. Once again, the finalists in this year’s Australian Event Awards demonstrate the strength and variety of Australia’s events industry, from outstanding events in regional areas, to events raising awareness and funds for important causes, bringing Australian brands to life with innovative activations, tourism events pumping money into local economies and many other exhibitions, conferences, festivals and events bringing people together for reasons of celebration, knowledge and connection.”
A full list of Australian Event Awards Finalists for 2017 is available at www.eventawards.com.au.
The Awards Ceremony is followed by the Australian Event Symposium on 14 – 15 September – a gathering for the entire industry to learn, connect and get up to date with the newest in technology, production, creativity, audience engagement, entertainment and news.
