Pain 101

21 April

Thank You!

A huge thanks to our support crews: Lloyd, Scott, Tarsh, Goose & Di, Chris(cook), Mel(cook), Monita, Steve(cook), Linh(photographer), Dave(photographer/driver/cook), Richard & Misato & friends. Just seeing you at the checkpoints really made a difference. Without you we would not have made it. Serious.

A heart felt thank you to everyone that donated. You have made a difference.

And thank you Oxfam for the great work you do! The volunteers were wonderful. The smiles and words of encouragement really inspired us.

21 April

Go! Go! Go!

We knew it was never going to be an easy 100kms. However, to experience it was something else again.

Everyone was in good spirits starting out from Jells Park. There were so many participants, it was hard to go at the pace we wanted, but we managed to overtake at every chance we got.

Coming into CP1 (Churchill National Park) and feeling quite fresh, we spent about 10 minutes checking in+out, topping up water, grabbing some fruit, before making our way to CP2.

21 April

CP1 - CP2

The terrain leading up to CP2 (Lysterfield Lake) was not easy, with a couple of big hills to slow us down. By the time we got to the lake, the legs felt a bit tired, with maybe some hotspots forming on our feet. Lloyd was there to greet us. After checking in+out, we spent some time having lunch, before attending to our feet.

21 April

CP2 - CP3

Then we were off on another rather hilly leg to CP3 (Grants Picnic Ground). Again, after checking in+out, we spent a bit of time recharging with snacks and electrolytic drinks. As I was chewing on a snack bar, I glanced over next to us and was amazed that the next team were about to munch on some pizzas. That got me thinking about dinner. We left Grants as the sun was going down.

21 April

CP3 - CP4

As we entered Sherbrooke Forest, light faded and we relied on our headlamps for light. The air got a little cooler and the legs were beginning to feel the k's, but we were buoyed by the promise of hot soup, dinner and fresh shoes/clothing that awaited us at CP4. Having not done this section in training, I am told it is the most picturesque part of the trail (I will have to come back for a visit, once I've grown new legs). This section also contains Hacketts Road. Now I know why it's infamous. The ascent was very steep. As I got to the top the hill I could hear sounds of retching. Fortunately it did not come from any of us. After Hacketts Road, it was just a matter of slogging onto CP4. By this stage, we were all quite hungry and more than a little weary.

There to welcome us at CP4 (Olinda Reserve) was Scott and Mel. We did the usual check in+out, then proceeded to meet the rest of the support crew. I was surprised so many had turned up! Bowls of soup were thrust at us, followed by noodles and pork chops. After stuffing ourselves, we attended to our sore feet, changed shoes and put on warmer clothing ready for the next stage. Getting off the seat to leave CP4 was hard, but we managed. Reinvigorated, we set off to CP5!

21 April

CP4 - CP5

CP4 to CP5 (Graham Colling Reserve) was not easy. The start was mostly downhill, but the trail was narrow, muddy and slippery. There were many protruding tree roots which were hard to see. A conscious effort was made to walk not so close to the person in front, so there was enough room to react if roots, ditches or mudpools were ahead. The air temperature had also dropped. After walking single file down a winding track for some time, the trail widen before we got to the intersection of Hermon's Track and Georges Track. We heard cheers, as this was the 50km mark. Quite an achievement already! Then it was on to the descent on Melba Track. It was a little surreal seeing all these bobbing headlamps making their way down the ludicrously steep slope. Not only was it steep, the rocks and gravel made it quite slippery. Although there was a guide rope to the left of the slope, so many people were using it, that if one slipped and fell, they'd pull on the rope, which affected everyone else. I opted for the right side of the track. Going down that long slope definitely got the adrenaline going. There were quite a few interesting comments to be heard as I waited at the bottom for the rest of the team. Definitely a memorable section of the trail. The trail then lead onto the Warburton Trail which seemed to go on forever. What kept us going was the promise of a five hour break back at Sue and Dave's house. At last we managed to stagger into CP5, where Dave greeted us. This time we checked in, then Dave drove us back to the house. Frankly, by this stage, doubt started to creep into my mind. It was great to be able to shower, eat and take a nap on a soft mattress. All too soon, it was time to get up. The sleep, albeit fitful, did rejuvenate the body to some degree. It made all the difference between agony and a mere dull pain for the final stages. After Dave drove us back to CP5, we checked out and stumbled out into the awaiting dawn. It was time to make our way to CP6!

20 April

CP4 - CP5

CP4 to CP5 (Graham Colling Reserve) was not easy. At the start, the terrain was mostly downhill, but the trail was narrow, muddy and slippery. There were many protruding tree roots which were hard to see in the dark. A conscious effort was made to walk not so close to the person in front, so there was enough room to react if roots, ditches or mudpools were ahead. The air temperature had also dropped. After walking single file down a winding track for some time, the trail widen before we got to the intersection of Hermon's Track and Georges Track. We heard cheers, as this was the 50km mark. Quite an achievement indeed! Then it was on to the descent at Melba Track. It was a little surreal seeing all these bobbing headlamps making their way down the ludicrously steep slope. Not only was it steep, the rocks and gravel made it quite slippery. Although there was a guide rope to the left of the slope, so many people were using it, that if one slipped and fell, they'd pull on the rope, which affected everyone else. I opted for the right side where it was less congested, but not as slippery as the centre. Going down that long slope definitely got the adrenaline going. There were quite a few interesting comments to be heard as I waited at the bottom for the rest of the team. Definitely a memorable section of the trail. The trail then lead onto the Warburton Trail which seemed to go on forever. What kept us going was the promise of a five hour break back at Sue and Dave's house. Finally we managed to stagger into CP5, where Dave greeted us. This time we checked in, then Dave drove us back to the house. To be honest, by this stage, serious questions were going through my mind. It was great to be able to shower, eat and take a nap on a soft mattress. All too soon, it was time to get up. The sleep, albeit fitful, did rejuvenate the body to some degree. It made all the difference between agony and a mere dull pain for the final stages. After Dave drove us back to CP5, we checke

20 April

CP5 - CP6

I'm glad we had an extended break at CP5, because I don't know if I could have handled another long flat section like the one leading to CP6 (Woori Yallock Primary School). The Warburton Trail would have been pleasant if we hadn't walked 59.6km already. The 13km section just seemed to go on forever. Marianne had a goal that also kept us going: the promise of a bacon and egg sandwich! Eventually, after passing the final paddock and cow, we arrived at CP6. After checking in+out, we had a bit of a rest and some brekky. Marianne was happy - she got her bacon and egg sandwich! It was 20.4km to the next checkpoint. So off we trudged.

20 April

CP6 - CP7

I don't know about the rest of the team, but through the pain, I was beginning to get a little excited that we were on our way to CP7. It was also the second last stage. And lunch was waiting! The Warburton Trail continued for a bit longer, before we crossed Don Valley, and on to the O’Shannassy Aqueduct Trail. The climb up to the Aqueduct Trail was a welcome break. I think the flat trails are harder on the feet and mind than hilly ones. After another 10km of gentle sloping trail that followed the aqueduct, we finally reached the streets Warburton. As we made our way towards the golf course, some children gave us refreshments which really lifted our spirits. Staggering into CP7, my legs and feet were burning. After checking in+out, Sue went to find a physio, while the rest of us met up with the support crew, Steve, Monita and Linh. While lounging back in our camp chairs, we tucked into lunch. It felt so good to be sitting! It also felt was great knowing that we only had one final stage to go. Nevermind it contained the toughest hill climb, we'll deal with it when the time came. Although we wanted to hang around a little bit longer, we also did not want to arrive at the finish after dusk. So for the final time, we willed our legs to lift us off our seats and begin walking towards our next destination.

20 April

We Made It!

The final section contains a steep and narrow goat track, that winds it's way up the Backstairs Track. This was just a taste of what's to come. At the top we meet a fire trail that leads onto a gentle 4km descent around Mt Little Joe. Then we get to the hardest ascent of them all. It's steep and goes on for a fair distance. My favourite type! I was dripping with sweat by the time I got to the top, but I made it in record time. I guess I have a knack for hills. There were quite a few amusing comments to be heard while waiting at the top of the hill. By this time, everyone was in high spirits because the end was near. We made our way down the remainder of the trail towards Wesburn Park. As we got nearer to the park, people started greeting us and cheering us on. We stepped out into the open parkland and walked towards the activity in the distance. A photographer stopped us for a photo opportunity, before we continuted towards the finish line. The crowd was cheering and we had huge grins on our faces. We made it!

Congratulations team!

11 April

Last Training Session

Today we had our last training session at the 1000 steps. Although there was a bit of rain, we managed to miss most of it by sheltering in a cafe. :) Now we begin the countdown till the big day, this Friday. Exciting indeed!

Training has ended,but the fundraising continues until May 31st. So if you think someone you know would like to make a difference, point them to our team page. Thank you to everyone who have donated or bought wine so far! By reaching our pledge of $1000, you have helped us secure a place at the start line.

Thank you to everyone who have put their hand up as support crew. You are the unsung heroes. Without you we won't be able to pull this off.

With all your support and encouragement, we will surely cross that finish line!

06 April

Team Member Profile: Sue Talbot

I'm happiest when I'm outdoors doing something active. I love to spend time in the bush, especially with good company. Doing something to make the world a better place is important to me so the Oxfam Trailwalker is the perfect event for me.

24 March

Team Member Profile: Anna

I enjoy being with nature and walking so it has been a worthwhile challenge to be a part of the Oxfam Trailwalker. In my spare time you will find me most likely chilling out with a book or two or catching up on the latest episode of Survivor, Man vs Wild or other outdoorsy tv program. I am a confirmed Sudoku addict although I am still working on my technique and I also like to dabble in a bit of cooking - the experimental variety.

18 March

Team Member Profile: John

I spend a lot of time on the PC and read huge amounts of sci-fi. Yes, I'm a geek. I don't watch too much TV these days, but I'd have to agree with Marianne - Get Smart always made me laugh. I bush walk, trail run and rock climb. For good measure, I also do spot of mountaineering and snowboarding. I seem to like doing the challenging things. I guess it makes life more rewarding. The Oxfam Trailwalker was a great way to meet people with similar values who were not afraid to face a challenge and make a difference.

17 March

Team Member Profile: Marianne

I'm really a bit of a quiet research/critical care nurse, workaholic according to my family. I only relax when at the beach and love watching all sorts of sports. I like to travel, play golf, ski, bush walk (without carrying a pack that is) and run. I've enjoyed the Oxfam challenge, the training and the event itself have been a really encouraging group experience. I like to read as well and my favourite all time TV show is now, and always will be, Get Smart. I laugh my head off time and time again. That's tragic isn't it? Oh, and I mustn't forget the family, they really are important to me too. I should also add that I love animals, especially dogs and horses.

17 March

Team Profiles

Pain 101 have recently had a BBQ as a get together for the team and support crew. The BBQ was held at Lysterfield Lake on Sunday. The weather was great, the food was delicious and finally everyone was able to see the faces behind most of the names. So, who makes up team Pain 101? In the coming posts we will let you know a little bit more about us...

17 March

Wine Drive

As part of our fundraising campaign we are holding a wine drive right now. There is a wide selection of wine available, so if you fancy a drop or two, you will be able to place orders for your favourite wines at The Grape Unknown (Make sure you enter "Pain 101" in Customer Notes so they know who to attribute the sale to).

Orders can only be made by the case. However, for those of you who think 12 bottles is 11 too many, we have a selection for sale by the bottle:

Merlot 2007 (Riverina):

$12 per bottle gets you a beautifully smooth easy drinking merlot. The nose is quite full and expressive, showing lovely sweet aromas of chocolate and caramel. It is gentle, with plenty of red berry fruit, some spice and a dusty finish.

Sem Sauv Blanc 2008 (Riverina):

$12 per bottle. Aromas of lime & lemon essence and with a palate that is fuller than the nose suggests, with confectionary fruit gum characterstics. A gentle grapefruit tang and a light, easy going tropical finish.

Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 (McLaren Vale):

$15 per bottle. Blackcurrant, plum and tobacco leaf dominate the nose. Full, rich, fleshy palate of Mulberry, black cherry and spice upfront laced with hint of Dutch chocolate and mint supported by fine texture, reasonable acidity with chalky fine tannins on the finish.

To purchase by the bottle, you will need to contact Anna, who will give you further details on how to go about it. Be quick because there is only a limited supply of single bottles for sale!

Please get orders in by 26/03/2010. Delivery is free to Melbourne Metropolitan areas, otherwise we can arrange for a pickup.

17 March

Our Challenge

We're taking part in Oxfam Trailwalker, a 100km endurance walk from Wheelers Hill to Wesburn, overnight, in teams of four, through the Australian bush.

We're doing all this to raise money for Oxfam Australia, who work to fight poverty and injustice in 26 countries around the world, including Indigenous Australia. Take a look around at our space, and check out the places and people that Oxfam Australia helps.