SYDNEY, NSW: As Australia grapples with rising mental health challenges and increasing social disconnection, thousands of walkers will take to the coastal trails of Sydney’s Northern Beaches on Friday 27 March for Coastrek 2026.
More than a fitness challenge, Coastrek has become part of a growing movement recognising the powerful role of nature and shared outdoor experiences in supporting mental wellbeing.
Led by Coastrek Founder Di Westaway OAM and charity partner Georgie Harman AO, CEO of Beyond Blue, the event brings to life the power of walking for wellbeing - highlighting time in nature and human connection as simple, cost effective and accessible ways to support mental health.
From Palm Beach to Manly, a “who’s who” of Australian advocates, athletes and media personalities will trek up to 50km, sending a powerful message: sometimes the most powerful path to better mental health is the one we walk together.
Di Westaway OAM, Founder of Coastrek, said: “We’re seeing more women realise that getting outdoors and moving in nature isn’t just good for you, it’s transformative. Time in nature, walking with others, is one of the most powerful ways to reset mentally and physically. It really is the best medicine.”
Georgie Harman AO, CEO of Beyond Blue, said: “Regular movement, strong social connections and time in nature can all play an important role in supporting our mental health and wellbeing. Coastrek brings these together in a really powerful way; walking side by side, setting a shared goal, and building habits that support mental wellbeing long after the finish line. Just as importantly, every step taken helps ensure Beyond Blue’s 24/7 Support Service is there for people across Australia whenever they need it.”
WHAT:
Coastrek Sydney 2026 - Australia’s iconic team hiking and fundraising challenge, raising vital funds for mental health and promoting the benefits of hiking in nature.
WHEN:
Friday 27 March 2026
WHERE:
Starts: Palm Beach (50km), Mona Vale (30km), and Longreef (20km)
Finish Village: Iconic Manly (adjacent to The Espy Manly)
RUNNING ORDER:
06:00am Palm Beach (Governor Phillip Park): 50km trekkers depart.
(Media Opportunity: Visual of sunrise start and elite teams)
07:00am Mona Vale Beach: 30km trekkers depart.
(Media Opportunity): High-profile wave including Di Westaway OAM, Sophie Scamps MP, Georgie Harman AO, and Johanna Griggs AM.
11:00am Longreef: 20km trekkers depart.
Finishing Village Manly Cove (adjacent to The Espy Manly)
Walkers crossing the Finish Line, MC-ed by Nicola Dale & Di Edwards (Over the Back Fence podcast), Sophie Lane & Lydia Mckay (The Stronger Stride podcast)
WHO:
A POWERHOUSE CAST FOR MENTAL HEALTH
- The Advocates: Di Westaway OAM (Founder, Coastrek) and Georgie Harman AO (CEO, Beyond Blue)
- The Pioneers: Coastrek Patron Cheryl & Nikki Bart (Mother-daughter duo; first to summit Everest together. Nikki is a heart specialist linking cardiovascular health to the trail).
- The Record Breakers: Lisa Blair OAM (Solo sailor; fastest solo non-stop circumnavigation of Antarctica).
- The Policy Makers: Dr Sophie Scamps MP (Federal Member for Mackellar).
- The Media Trailblazer: Johanna Griggs AM (Australian Television presenter, sports legend and Beyond Blue Board Member, walking with Beyond Blue CEO Georgie Harman and new Beyond Blue Board Member Jono Nicholas)
INTERVIEW & PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE
- Di Westaway OAM - Founder, Coastrek (women’s movement, outdoor wellbeing)
- Georgie Harman AO - CEO, Beyond Blue (mental health, connection, nature)
- Cheryl Bart - Coastrek Patron; Everest climber and leadership expert (with a powerful perspective on resilience, challenge and stepping outside comfort zones)
- Dr Nikki Bart - Cardiologist (heart health, stress, benefits of walking)
- B-Roll/Stills: Sunrise at 6am, dramatic coastal vistas, team camaraderie, and the emotional "Finish Line" moments at Manly.
Plus, a range of inspiring participants and high-profile walkers from media, business and wellness available for interviews and vision on the day.
The Beyond Blue Support Service is free and available 24/7 on 1300 22 4636 or online beyondblue.org.au/getsupport.
To find a Coastrek event in your city, go to www.coastrek.com.au
About us:
About Coastrek
Coastrek is Australia’s iconic team hiking and fundraising challenge. Since Coastrek’s first event in 2009 over 90,000 people have trained and completed a Coastrek challenge and raised over $57 million for respected Australian charities including the Fred Hollows Foundation, the Heart Foundation and Beyond Blue. Visit www.coastrek.com.au.
About Beyond Blue
Beyond Blue provides mental health information, support and advice to help everyone feel better earlier and stay well. Last year more than 300,000 people contacted Beyond Blue’s free, confidential, 24/7 Support Service. Call 1300 22 4636 or visit www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support.
Contact details:
For more information, contact:
Marlene Richardson, GasbagPR | 0409 888 218 | [email protected]
