The Rapid Relief Team (RRT) will be there every step of the way to support almost 1,000 walkers taking part in the Great Aussie Hike through Victoria’s Wombat State Forest today and tomorrow.
In its fifth year, the Great Aussie Hike challenges participants to hike up to 100 kilometres, while raising money for kids with illness and disabilities through Variety the Children’s Charity.
Local Team Leader James Thomas said 30 volunteers will be serving 2,000 meals and refreshments across the two-day event.
“We’ll be serving muesli cups and fruit, our Signature Burgers, sausage sandwiches and chicken wraps, and keeping people energised and hydrated with barista made coffee and plenty of bottles of water,” James said.
“The Great Aussie Hike is a great initiative that brings people together for a great cause, sharing a spirit of adventure and enjoying the beautiful setting of Wombat State Forest.”
Hike founder Anna Kelly said what started as a one-off event to boost the community’s spirit following Covid lockdowns at the 2020 Gippsland bushfires has become an annual event.
“The Great Aussie Hike is all about the great Aussie spirit of mates looking after each other, getting outside and active, while supporting the incredible work of Variety the Children’s Charity,” said Anna.
“We are grateful for the amazing support we get every year from the Rapid Relief Team – we couldn’t do this without them.”
Hikers can take on 30km, 50km, or 100km courses. The event begins at 7am and finishes tomorrow night. For more information visit www.greataussiehike.com.au.
RRT is the charitable arm of the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church.
Established in 2013, the RRT has more than 16,000 volunteers around the world who support community events and assist emergency services in times of disaster and crisis by providing meals and other support. For more information on RRT, please go to www.rrtglobal.org/.
Media enquiries: Katie Kimberley, 0417 467 215