A gruelling 100-kilometre trek across some of North Queensland's most rugged terrain has delivered an extraordinary result for our community, with the Townsville Hike & Explore team smashing their $10K target by raising $15,168 for the Cowboys Community Foundation.
Over 27-28 June, five determined hikers – Michael Pugh, Sean Dromey, Arika Appleby, Anne Camplin and Rebekah Lambert – completed the demanding endurance challenge, traversing mountains, forests, creek systems and the iconic PRB Track to support life-changing community programs delivered by the Cowboys Community Foundation and NRL Cowboys House.
The fundraising total, made possible through the generosity of local businesses, community organisations and individual donors, combines with last year's inaugural effort for an incredible $27,317 raised over two years through the generosity of the North Queensland community, including over $10,000 from a generous North Queensland donor, Chris Drew.
Townsville Hike & Explore founder Michael Pugh said while reaching the finish line was immensely rewarding, the real achievement belonged to everyone who got behind the challenge.
"Every one of us crossed that finish line tired, sore and running on determination, but knowing why we were out there made every step worthwhile," Mr Pugh said.
"This hike is about bringing good people together to do something positive for our community, and to support young people who deserve every opportunity to succeed.
"I'm incredibly proud of this team. We pushed each other through some really challenging moments, looked after one another and never lost sight of the bigger picture. That's what this event is all about.
"To everyone who donated, shared our journey, encouraged us or supported us along the way – thank you. This result belongs to the whole North Queensland community. We simply had the privilege of putting one foot in front of the other on their behalf."
Townsville Hike & Explore 100km charity hikers Michael Pugh, Rebekah Lambert, Anne Camplin, Arika Abbleby & Sean Dromey
Cowboys Community Foundation CEO Fiona Pelling said the hikers had once again demonstrated the remarkable impact of community-led fundraising.
"What this team has achieved is nothing short of extraordinary," Ms Pelling said.
"To commit to walking more than 100 kilometres across challenging terrain is an incredible physical and mental achievement, but to do it for the benefit of others speaks volumes about the generosity of everyone involved.
"Every dollar raised will help the Cowboys Community Foundation continue delivering programs that improve education, employment and wellbeing outcomes for young people and communities across our region, including students at NRL Cowboys House.
"We are incredibly grateful to our inspiring hikers and their support crew, the Townsville Hike & Explore team and every donor, volunteer, supporter and local business who helped make this event such a success. Together, you've created an impact that will having lasting benefits."
Donations can still be made in support of the fundraiser through the online donation form at cowboysfoundation.org.au/the-hike.
