This year marks 25 years of Coastrek, the Beaches-born team walking challenge
The team hiking funraiser, Coastrek, is back on 27 March and it’s set to be a big occasion as the walk from Palm Beach to Manly celebrates its 25th anniversary.
It also raises money for mental health, and this year organisers have partnered with Beyond Blue, and hope to raise $1 million for the charity.
Instead of a race, like a traditional fun run, Coastrek is a dedicated team event, where groups of two or more come together to fundraise while having fun and getting fit. Participants who register receive a free 12-week training program to help prepare for the event, and participating teams are encouraged to raise $500 per person for the cause.
Coastrek volunteer Jennifer Lugsdin chooses to support the initiative through helping the event run smoothly instead of participating. “I’ve seen firsthand how hard living with mental health challenges can be. Supporting someone close to me… it’s made me think, what if they didn’t have someone to turn to? That’s why services like Beyond Blue are so vital,” Jennifer says. “Everyone deserves support, especially in their hardest moments.”
Coastrek CEO and Beaches local Jo Runciman has participated in eight Coastreks – six of them before she was appointed last year. She is excited to be taking part this anniversary year. “I can honestly say it has been brilliant each time,” Jo told PL. “Having something to train for is an excuse to meet weekly with my besties. I have a great time (doing the walk) with friends, we talk our heads off!”
There are three events for teams to choose from, with all events finishing in Manly. The 50km trek starts at Palm Beach, the 30km event takes off from Mona Vale Beach, and the 20km walk begins at Long Reef Beach.
Local group, Manly Beach Training (MBT), has been preparing its members since the new year. This year, MBT has two teams involved in the hike, the MBT Moonwalkers, who will be doing the 30km hike, and the MBT 20, who are doing the 20km walk.
Former Deputy Premier John Barilaro is part of the Moonwalkers team this year. “I’m doing Coastrek because I know what it’s like to look okay on the outside and not be okay on the inside,” he says. “I’ve had times where just getting through the day took everything I had.
“Beyond Blue is there for people in those moments when things feel too heavy, and you don’t know who to call. If walking this coastline and raising some money helps even one person feel less alone or hold on for one more day, then it’s worth every step.”
MBT has been run by local resident Jason Tye for over a decade on Manly Beach, treating its members, who range in age from their 40s to 60s, to ‘sunrise bootcamp-style training.’
“I’m all about supporting people to feel better and live better, every forward step is closer to physical and mental wellbeing,” Jason explained.
Registration for Coastrek closes on Sunday 15 February, and donations continue until 5 April. You can also support MBT by following their Instagram, @manlybeachtraining
Coastrek Sydney
27 March
For costs and information,
visit: Coastrek.com.au