24 July 2017
Trekking for change
For eight days ten brave trekkers took on the harsh environment of the Simpson Desert. They battled extreme heat during the day and freezing temperatures at night. The sand dunes spanned up to 30 meters high, our trekkers climbing them with determination and endurance. There were painful lows and personal triumphs. Dehydrated dinners and LOTS of Hydrolyte.
These people sound crazy right? Why would they choose to put themselves through so much pain? It pales in comparison to what young people with high care needs face every day.
Pictured: Matt Boyd, Matt Pearson, Robb Moffat, Matt Tuttle, Brendan Mayles, Clayton McDonald, Annabel Phelan, Anthony Ryan, Nicole Mackay and Matthew Waldron.
The isolation of the desert, the lack of choice and dignity our trekkers experienced on their journey, is a mere resemblance of what young people with high care needs are living with day to day.
“Despite all the blisters, joint pains, gags after sips of Hydrolyte and endless burs it feels great to know that by experiencing these things I have been able to help others.” Annabel Phelan, Simpson Desert trekker.
Our trekkers range from a university student, to a mother of two, to a Property Development Project Manager. Although they all come from different walks of life, they found a common ground with helping young people with high care needs, the trek forging friendships like no other.
“It was easily one of the best experiences of my life and I have made some beautiful friendships because of it.” Matt Pearson, Simpson Desert trekker.
Since its inception, the Simpson Desert Challenge has raised $3,334,823 to enable young people with high care needs to live with freedom – to choose where they live, who they live with and how they live their lives.