Two Ocean Grove women are preparing for a gruelling five-day hike in the Northern Territory next year to raise money for youth homelessness.
Kate Gorman and Briony Darcy hope to raise $7000 by walking some of the Larapinta Trail near Alice Springs for the charity Kids Under Cover.
“Being mothers of young families, we were shocked to learn that young people aged 12 to 24 make up 24 per cent of the homeless population in this country,” Kate said.
“In the Geelong region alone, about 20 per cent of all those that access homelessness services are children under 15 years of age.”
The hike will take place in the coolest month of July.
“Leaving Alice Springs, we will hike across ridges of the McDonnell Ranges, Gorges and get some insight into First Nations culture along the way,” Kate said.
“As long as we manage to not fall off or into any of these natural wonders we have no doubt it will be an amazing life experience. Just with the bonus of feeling like we are doing some good by raising funds along the way.”
The pair will organise fundraising events next year to get to the $7000 target.
“We have been directly approaching some local business connections who are involved in construction and building as a starting point,” Kate said.
“However, locals may see us pounding the pavement seeking support from our wonderful community throughout the busy summer months as well as flagging our adventures on the Facebook community pages.
“Additionally, the Ocean Grove Tennis Club has kindly offered to support us with some ad-hoc fundraising activities over the next few months which we will aim to promote when we have these locked in.”
Details: fundraise.giveeasy.org/campaigns/kate-brionys-hike-for-homeless, or make a donation by texting BDKG to 0437 371 371.
Justin Flynn
