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[title]This epic challenge invites bold hikers to band together and journey through 100km of bushland to support communities around the world who are living below the poverty line. To be part of Oxfam Trailwalker, a global phenomenon, you’ll need to rally three of your most fearless friends to join you on the trail.
Photograph: Supplied
It’s not a relay, but rather a team effort where you’ll gather strength from your friends as you help each other reach the finish line. The aim is to complete the 100km trail in 48 hours, so prepare for some intense bonding moments. If your team wants to test the waters, you can trial the Sydney trail with the 50km stint that can be conquered in 24 hours.
Most importantly, you’ll be raising funds as a team. You’ll need to raise $1,600 to participate in the event, which will go towards Oxfam’s programs around the world. So far, those who’ve tackled Oxfam Trailwalker have contributed $100 million towards Oxfam’s work finding practical, innovative ways for people to lift themselves out of poverty and thrive.
Photograph: Supplied
You’ll be venturing through some incredible scenery as you follow the trail. The Sydney walk starts within the small township of Brooklyn on the Hawkesbury River. You’ll quickly reach glistening views of Parsley Bay before you approach the gumtree canopy of the Great Northern Walk and on through the northern reaches of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park and Berowra Valley.
The 50km trek starts when you reach Bobbin Head, which also presents some spectacular views, before facing the rugged path through to Garigal National Park. Once you’ve made it to Davidson Park and the end is in sight (metaphorically), you’ll find more postcard-perfect scenes, including the eagle-eye view of Sydney Harbour along the well-trod Spit to Manly walk, which leads you to your triumphant collapse at Tania Park.
The mammoth effort will leave you and your team drained and with throbbing feet and muscles, but full of passion for achieving this massive commitment.
Photograph: Supplied
To minimise the physical drain as much as possible, you’ll want to commit to a training regime before the walk and ramp up your stamina. Happily, Oxfam has free training and nutritional guides to get you prepared for Oxfam Trailwalker. There’s also some hot tips in the FAQs section of their website about what to carry on the day, the best hiking gear, info about the trail and other event rules.
And at the end of the day, it’s all about connection: with your fellow hikers, with those who contribute to your fundraising and the communities you are supporting.
The Sydney journey for 2019 is running from August 23-25, so register your crew of four today.
Photograph: Supplied