My Hilarious Hiking Adventure

What inspired you to join Hike for Homeless Youth to raise awareness and funds?

It was a combination of raising much needed funds for the Property Industry Foundation and challenging myself physically and mentally that appealed to me.

How did you prepare for your hiking challenge both physically and mentally?

We did a few training hikes on Mt Cootha and a weekly schedule of walks around the hills of Wilston and Windsor.

Were there any moments during your hike that stand out as especially challenging or rewarding?

As we approached the summit of the second peak, Mt Cordeaux, the team was showing signs of fatigue. One of the group asked our guide: “how far to go?” only to receive the response “we’re less than halfway there.” The group went quiet and heads dropped. About 15 minutes later, the guide turns around after checking his phone and, in a perky tone, says “oh no, sorry, I stuffed up. We’re almost there. Only about 500m to go!”  

How did you engage with your supporters and keep them updated on your progress throughout the hike?

My approach was very personal – direct emails, phone calls and coffees. Once people understand the extent of youth homelessness in Australia, they’re compelled to act.

What has been the response from the community and your supporters?

It’s been incredible! People care about addressing youth homelessness in Australia. We just need to keep hammering the message home, raising the awareness, and calling upon generous donors to make a difference.

“People care about addressing youth homelessness in Australia. We just need to keep hammering the message home, raising the awareness, and calling upon generous donors to make a difference.”

What did you learn about homelessness and the struggles faced by homeless youth through this experience?

Hearing directly from Mason, a young teenager who has lived rough on the streets since he was eight years old, was heart wrenching. The thought of a child sleeping in a McDonalds playground at night to escape an abusive family is hard to accept.

How has this fundraising hike impacted you personally?

It’s helped to better my understanding of the scale and severity of the issue. It’s also helped to build a network of individuals in the industry that are willing to do something about it. But it’s just the start for me, I look forward to supporting for many years to come.

Were there any unexpected outcomes during your hike you’d like to share?

I didn’t expect to laugh as much! There must have been something in the Scenic Rim air – or the wines the night before! – that lifted the spirits. It was a hilariously memorable experience.

Is there a particular interaction that occurred during your campaign that deeply moved you?

Without doubt, it was hearing about the amazing work that Esuarve do to address youth homelessness in Australia and the real-life example, Mason.

What advice would you give to someone who is considering undertaking a similar challenge to raise money for our cause?

Get into it! Just say yes.

What was the consensus from other hikers?

The WhatsApp group in the 24 hours after we completed the hike is testament to the mood among the hikers. We loved it, we had an excellent time, we beat our fundraising target and we contributed in a meaningful way. Win, win, win, win.

Do you have plans for future fundraising endeavours, and if so, can you give us a hint about what might be next for you?

The Urban Developer will be participating in the Charity Regatta in Brisbane, as well as the Trivia Night at Howard Smith Wharves in August. The Foundation will also be our charity partner at our upcoming Urbanity conference so get along and support!