Before our trekkers head out to the desert, get to know their motivations for taking on the challenge.
To learn more or donate, head over to their Everyday Hero page linked below!
Joel Bunter
“I decided to participate in the challenge due to my mother’s career in the disability sector. I have developed knowledge and compassion for young people living with disabilities.”
Alex Bond
“I am eager to support a vital service which currently fills a hole in our health care system. I’ve always pursued challenges to push my physical and mental boundaries, I believe this trek will certainly do both.”
Mair Brooks
“As a student I worked in aged care in the UK and saw the conditions. I can’t imagine being in a home at the same age. On a personal note I have been supporting my immediate family with disability and I know what support we need to give to our friends, family and community.”
Paul Giuffrida
“One of my best friends has a daughter with high care needs. I hope the money raised will help provide suitable accommodation or the ability to remain in their current home surrounded by loved ones.”
Julia Joseph
“The unfortunate school boy rugby injuries last year left a handful of boys in hospital fighting for their lives and their independence. Our son had a scare early on in the rugby season and I empathised with the families affected by these tragedies.”
Emma Lloyd
“Every single day I read (and write) the stories from the young people Youngcare assists. After almost 3 years, it still blows my mind that we live in a country where there is still stigma associated with disability.”
Brendan Mayles
“I know that I am only stuck in the desert for 8 days – some young Australian’s are currently stuck in aged care homes with no out.”
Angus McLean
“I first became aware over a decade ago through Youngcare’s support of a family friend with an acquired brain injury. Since then, I’ve made every effort to be involved wherever possible to assist Youngcare’s cause.”
Mary McLean
“Being in the desert will be as mentally tough as it will be physical. When days are tough it is important to know that this is the feeling of most young people in aged care or not-appropriate housing.”
Surayez Rahman
“I have participated in a few Youngcare At Home Grants panels and reading through the submissions and how much good Youngcare do, it motivated me to participate.”
Natasha Sharp
“My brother Brian has an acquired brain injury after an accident and now lives at the Youngcare Wooloowin Share House. My motivation in the desert will be his smile and laugh.”
Ryan Upton
“My biggest motivation will be thinking about what struggles my friend Tim (resident at the Sinnamon Park Apartments) and others face on a daily basis and how strong they are to overcome these challenges.”
Teneille Vassie
“I have family and friends caring for and in care with disabilities. I understand just how hard it can get, even just the simple things sometimes can seem so far away.”
Leon Williamson
“My motivation to keep pushing myself in the desert will be walking further than Paul Giuffrida!”
Scott Winter
“My biggest motivation will be knowing that whatever challenges I face are a drop in the ocean to what others are facing.”
