More than 650 teams of four will take part in Oxfam Trailwalker Melbourne on the weekend of 11-13 April, 2008. Their challenge: to walk (or run!) 100km within 48 hours! The 2008 trail will follow a similar route to 2007, starting at Jells Park in Wheelers Hill and finishing at Wesburn Park in the Yarra Valley.
Challenge
Oxfam TRAILWALKER is the world's greatest team challenge. And it's also one of the toughest. The challenge is to get your team of four across 100km of Australian bush in less than 48 hours - and, collectively, to raise at least $1,000 to help to overcome poverty and suffering around the world.
Anyone can do it
Oxfam TRAILWALKER is all about teamwork - it is a great way for friends to bond or for work colleagues to develop team spirit. You need to start together, go through each checkpoint together, and finish together. You'll have to train and fundraise together beforehand. Oxfam TRAILWALKER is challenging - but you don't need to be a marathon runner or a professional athlete to do it. Whether you are a team of bankers, over 40 mums, running buddies or university mates, with training and the right mental attitude, just about anyone can complete in the event.
Fundraising
Each team must commit to raising at least $1000 to support Oxfam's work in 28 countries including Indigenous Australia. By raising money for Oxfam Australia you will be making a tremendous difference to people's lives. Fundraising is a challenge, but it's also great fun!
Support crew - your saving grace
Finally, your team must find a group of family or friends who can form a Support Crew to help you get through the event. A good support crew is essential and can make or break your experience.
Where is it?
Oxfam TRAILWALKER takes place at two locations in Australia - Melbourne in April, and Sydney in August. Both trails offer stunning scenery, incredible views - and the opportunity to tell your friends you have completed 100km through the bush in less than two days!
How did it begin?
The event began in 1981 as a military exercise for the elite Queen's Gurkha Signals Regiment in Hong Kong, and has since grown into one of the world's leading sporting challenges. Oxfam TRAILWALKER is a global event, taking place annually in New Zealand, UK, Hong Kong and Japan, and will begin in Belgium from August 2008.
Volunteers
Oxfam TRAILWALKER is a massive logistical exercise. Over 700 volunteers work tirelessly on the event weekend to make it possible. Volunteers work in various roles from checkpoint co-ordinators and track marshals to drivers and physiotherapists. Their dedication, enthusiasm and hard work play a pivotal role in making Oxfam TRAILWALKER a success.
To volunteer, hit the volunteer page to register.
