REGISTRATIONS NOW FULL 05 Dec 08
We have now filled all team places for Oxfam TRAILWALKER Melbourne 2009. The 'Register Now' button has been removed as we are no longer accepting teams onto the waitlist.
We are sorry if you have missed out on participating in Oxfam TRAILWALKER Melbourne 2009. We recommend that you subscribe to eNews so that you are aware of what date registrations open a little sooner next year. We expect the registrations for 2010 will open in early October 2009.
If you still want to be a part of the event, we would love to have your support as a volunteer. We need over 800 volunteeers to help us ensure the event runs smoothly. Check out the volunteer section of this website for more information.
We hope to hear from you again in 2009. Thanks for supporting Oxfam Australia.
Oxfam Trailwalker Team.
Minimum pledge category places are now full 20 Nov 08
Minimum pledge category places for Oxfam TRAILWALKER Melbourne 2009 are now full.
Teams who wish to register in the minimum pledge category ($1000-$4999) online after 5pm, this Friday, 21 November will be put onto the waitlist and will be contacted by the Trailwalker Team. To register for the waitlist, please go online and enter all details of your team and four walkers. You will not be asked to pay the registration fees at this stage.
There are still a few team places available for those teams pledging to raise $5000 or more. Teams pledging $5000 or more will receive the following:
- personal contact throughout the event for fundraising and training advice
- priority start times
- up to 4 tickets to the VIP Breakfast at the Start (for your supporters)
For your fundraising efforts, you and your team can win rewards such as Paddy Pallin gear or a trip to the Oxfam TRAILWALKER in Hong Kong courtesy of Asia Miles. For more information about fundraising rewards click here.
For more information please send an email to trailwalkermelbourne@oxfam.org.au or call 1800 088 110 during business hours.
How do I Log in to Teamspace? 06 Oct 08
Each team gets their very own web page called Teamspace.
How do I Log in to Teamspace?
To get started, you will need a password. Go to the Team login area and click 'Get a password'. Once you have done this a password will be sent by email (same email you provided us upon registration). Make sure you copy only the password numbers and letters (no spaces or full stops).
How do I personalise my Teamspace?
Once you log in, try changing your team photo and writing an introduction about your team. Try to keep it short and inspiring. To read more about Teamspace and link to our Instructional videos on YouTube click the following link: http://www2.oxfam.org.au/trailwalker/Melbourne/fundraising/teampage.aspx
Registrations update 05 Oct 08
Once again, we have been inundated with team registrations in the first week of opening with 450 team places already filled. This year we have 700 team places in total, so if you are wanting to register, you'll need to be quick.
Of the 550 Regular team places available there are 365 places already filled.
Link to Team Registration pages 01 Oct 08
Having trouble finding your way to the Team Registration area?
Click on the following link to be taken straight there:
https://www2.oxfam.org.au/trailwalker/register/teaminfo.php?EventState=VIC
Registrations are NOW OPEN! 01 Oct 08
Registrations for Oxfam TRAILWALKER Melbourne 2009 are NOW OPEN!
We have already reached 100 team registrations at 9:30am this morning.
If you are having trouble finding your way to the team registration area, please click on the following link to be taken straight there:
https://www2.oxfam.org.au/trailwalker/register/teaminfo.php?EventState=VIC
Registration opens Wednesday, October 1 01 Sep 08
Are you ready to register?
Registrations for the 2009 Oxfam TRAILWALKER Melbourne open on Wednesday, 1 October.
To secure your team place in the event you will need to come back to this website and register all your team and walker details online.
You will need to provide us with the following details about your team:
- Team Name
- Organisation representing (if any)
- Industry Category (if none then choose 'Open')
- Pledge Category (if choosing $5000+ receive a choice of Start times)
- Target Fundraising amount
- Estimated Finishing Time (based on experience)
As well as the following details about your four team members:
- Name, Contact details and email address (important as we will use these for the rest of the event when trying to contact each walker)
- DOB & Emergency Contact details
- plus more
Your team place is only secured once we recieve $520 payment for the registration fees, which you will be asked to do at the end of the registration process.
Please email us if you have any questions trailwalkermelbourne@oxfam.org.au
2009 Dates locked in: March 27-29 13 Aug 08
Lace up your walking boots, switch on your head lamps, and start strapping up those feet and toes because we have locked in our dates for Oxfam TRAILWALKER 2009: Friday 27 March to Sunday 29 March. To register your team, get all details of your four walkers and come back to this site on Wednesday 1 October.
Oxfam TRAILWALKER Melbourne 2008 breaks all previous Australian records 13 Apr 08
A team of four local participants, ‘Team Muttley’ has broken the record for Melbourne 2008 Oxfam TRAILWALKER by completing the 100km event on foot in just 11 hours and 26 minutes, making them the fastest Australian TRAILWALKERS on record!
Astonishingly, they had never before raced together as a team and seemed surprised by their win. “We thought we were going for a place, but we didn’t think that we were going for a first,” said Rohan Day. When asked how he felt finishing the 100km trail he said, “euphoric”. The team celebrated each other’s achievement and thanked the organisers, volunteers and support crews for a successful event.
668 teams of four started the endurance challenge on Friday morning, with the last team of four ‘Sweet Eastern Sirens’ representing the SES, arriving at 6:51am this morning with huge smiles on their faces as they were embraced by the many SES volunteers who had gathered to cheer them across the Finish line.
Oxfam TRAILWALKER Co-ordinator Tamsin Loy said “This year’s Melbourne TRAILWALKER has broken all records. Not only have we had 87.2% of participants and 435 complete teams of 4 cross the line but the teams’ supporters and donors have helped us raise $1.54 million to date -all helping Oxfam overcome poverty and social injustice around the world.”
Neighbours actor Ryan Moloney, one of the 2,672 participants, set off at 7am on Friday morning and crossed the finish line 26 hours later. “I have huge blisters, and are more exhausted than I have ever been in my life” he said, “but when it stops hurting, I’ll realise it was all worth it.”
Kathy McLinden, National TRAILWALKER Coordinator says: "We are thrilled that we were able to provide a full 100km trail this year after the extra ordinary weather conditions we have experienced in 06 and 07, forcing shorter distances. There were also 853 amazing volunteers covering 1100 shifts over the weekend who always had a smile and words of encouragement for the walkers. For Oxfam Australia, the safety of our participants is paramount and we cannot thank Parks Victoria, the CFA, the Victoria Police, WICEN, MAS, DSE, Event Medical Services and the SES enough for their extraordinary efforts over the weekend."
Supported by principal sponsor State Street, Oxfam Trailwalker 2008 has been embraced by communities along the trail, the walkers who put in the hard yards, the amazing volunteers and the incredibly generous donors – so please donate!
For media enquiries call: Melany Markham on 0407 515 559
Saturday Night 12 Apr 08
Saturday night is here and the teams have been arriving thick and fast - some blistered, some completely worn out, and a few looking remarkably fresh. There are still about 180 teams out on the trail.
Everyone's having fun at the finish line. There's a small city of marquees with good food, Oxfam displays and a smokey tent simulating a burning house. In the control centre there's a few lads sucking in helium sounding about 10 years old.
No further news on Eddie the Eel. Andrew Mosbauer has returned from his fruitless search. For now we can do nothing other than consider the sighting 'unconfirmed'.
The temparature's dropped a bit. Stay warm teams!
Sat 3pm: Over 350 teams have finished, it's a beautiful day! 12 Apr 08
We here at the Control Centre are enjoying the beautiful sunshine as more and more teams finish the event. Here's an update on the event:
As of 3pm on Saturday arvo, the weather is abso-bloomin' lovely and over 350 teams have crossed the finish line!
The blisters are abound, and according to Adam and the boys of
Team Katz, "The conversation dried up somewhere in the hills, but luckily the hydration systems haven't!" Team Katz's goal is to raise $1,000 to support anti-poverty work around the world, and they'd like us to pass on their thanks to those who have donated and Jeff with their support crew! Find out more about these guys and
donate to their team!
Over 800 volunteers have participated in this year's event, helping to make it a smashing success - literally, we're smashing the records left and right! One of our volunteers, Ally, has been directing traffic here at the Finish, and has been attacked by two 8-year-old face painters! Visit the Flickr site for the photos!
Sat 10:45am: Staying Positive with The Optimists 12 Apr 08
Oxfam Australia's Trailwalker event is about 100km's in 48 hours. It's about giving back. And no team knows this more than Team 100, The Optimists. This team, made up of Oxfam staffers and a friend, have already covered 73kms of the trail and are still in good spirits.
Here's what Georgia Noy, from Oxfam's Program Development Unit, had to say at 10am Saturday morning:
It's been great. Between Checkpoint 5 & 6 was absolutely PUNISHING. It's a relatively easy part of the walk and a beautiful spot, but it's where a lot of teams were trying to break their back before stopping for the night. After many group hugs, a few tears, and several swearing sessions, we hit the Checkpoint and stopped for the night. Those 8km's felt like days.
And how were those 3 hours of sleep? "MAGICAL," said Georgia. "I woke up this morning and realized that I had fallen asleep literally in the middle of composing a text message to a friend. Today we feel refreshed and revived and our support crew is so amazing."
Speaking of support, The Optimists might just have the best assistance on the trail. Between the smiley-faced cupcakes, the star jumps by Courtney's partner, Ross, and the following poem by Karen's parents, the team is healthy, well-fed, and in good spirits. Here's a snippet of the support they've received:
There were 4 girls on a 1OOK walk,
Who while they walked would talk, talk, talk.
With grit & guts they'd reach their goal,
Having at times to dig deep in their souls.
Blocking out pain to reach the next level,
The end was in sight and they won their gold medal.
With the glass once again half-full, The Optimists are on their way to the finish. Support them here.
Sat 9am A Perfect Torture: Jaw Flappers almost there, ironically too tired to talk! 12 Apr 08
Svetlana from Team 182, The Jaw Flappers, just gave us a simple but profound update from the trail saying, "we're almost there, but I'm not sure where!" Reporting live from somewhere near the finish, Svetlana let us know that they are enduring a perfect torture.
"While there have been many swollen blisters, we've had no tears. It's been fun and great. Our goal was to collect as much sponsorship as we can and finish the 100km's."
The Jaw Flappers left Checkpoint 8, the beginning of the "Home Stretch" at approximately 6:06 this morning and should be nearing the finish soon! These ladies have already raised over $2,000 for Oxfam's work.
Eddie the Eel's back? 12 Apr 08
There has been an unconfirmed sighting of Eddie the Eel in the Yarra River by Oxfam staff member, Andrew Mosbauer.
Legend has it that in years past Eddie the Eel swallowed a Jack Russell and a goose. Whilst reports of Eddie have ceased in recent years, Mr Mosbauer has never been confident that terror in the Yarra was over. "I've been saying this for years and no one's listened, Eddie the Eel is a giant and giants don't go quietly."
Mr Mosbauer is presently wading through the creek and vows to bring an end to the ravenous beast.
Stay tuned for future updates.
BLOG 10: Fri 2:30pm - Bringing up the rear is Sweet. 11 Apr 08
Someone's gotta do it, and who better to keep an eye on the back of the pack than the celebrated SES team, Sweet Eastern Sirens? These lovely ladies in orange jumpsuits (Myriam, Melanie, Melinda and Vicki) represent the Croydon SES unit and have raised over $2,000 for Oxfam's work.
Myriam reported at 2:30 that the team were just nearing Lysterfield Lake, with a few blisters and some sunburn, but otherwise cheerful and enjoying the day.
They might be in 666th place, but these girls are angels. It's not too late to spread a little love, and give them your support today.
BLOG 11: Fri 3pm - It's all happening at Checkpoint 4 11 Apr 08
It's the place to be. It's buzzing with people. All the cool kids are there. It's just SO hot right now. Checkpoint 4, at the beautiful Olinda Reserve, is flooded with trecker teams who've passed the half-way line.
Among them, the extrodinary
Maridedo team, who's fundraising efforts have placed them at
#1 on the Leaderboard. The team, Debbie, Don, Matthew and Richard have raised a whopping $20,100 . An incredible achievement, and an amount that can pay for the development of THREE school houses, fully furnished and equipped with reading and resource materials, PLUS 4 fully-stocked rice banks in Laos.
That's a whole world of hope for a community who needs it most.
Maridedo, we salute you. Settle back for a nice massage by the friendly massage volunteers... cos at Checkpoint 4 - it's all about you.
BLOG 12: Fri 4pm - Heading for $2million 11 Apr 08
Just like a weary trailwalker trudging up into the hills, so our TRAILWALKER tally keeps on rising. We're currently sitting at $1.5million, and hoping to reach $2million by the end of TRAILWALKER 2008. (Last year's total was $2,029,077)
These gifts will go straight towards Oxfam's life-changing work around the world, reducing poverty and giving families a better chance at life. Oxfam has been fighting poverty for over 30 years.
To see how you can be part of the solution, click here.
Blog 13: The winners are Team Muttley 11 Apr 08
The winners are:
Team Muttley!!! Team Muttley has broken the record and are the fastest Australian TRAILWALKERS!
The phenomenal team crossed the finish line just one minute before the record.
Friends, family and TRAILWALKER staff waited anxiously watching the clock, hoping that they wold make it in time.
The team ran the entire 100km and looked elated, and strangely relaxed, as they finally crossed the finish line.
‘We thought we are were going for a place, but we didn’t think that we were going for a first,” said Rohan Day.
When asked how he felt finishing the 100km trail he said simply, “Euphoric”.
BLOG 1: Fri 7-9:00am KICK OFF!! 11 Apr 08
As the sun rises over the Dandenong Ranges, 650 teams have begun their 100km walk (or run!) for Oxfam TRAILWALKER 2008. The starting lineup at 7am included salubrious walkers such as Ryan Maloney, who plays Toadfish on Aussie TV show,
Neighbours.
Before their feet have even hit the path, the total raised for Oxfam TRAILWALKER has reached $1.3 million. To support the brave walkers over the weekend – and help Oxfam overcome poverty through its work around the world –
click here to donate to your TRAILWALKER team now.
And over the next 48 hours, keep an eye on the
Team Results and
Leader Board for the latest results throughout the weekend!
BLOG 2: Fri 10am - Three hours in... 11 Apr 08
... and Team Muttley lead the pack. (These intrepid four trained at Donna Buang and the Maroondah Trail 50k race... ouch). They're just ahead of How Good is This and Best Boys as they teams leave Checkpoint 2, Lysterfield Lake. Putting the sound of bell birds behind them, the top ten teams are now heading for the hills: Check point 3 in beautiful Kallista.
As muscles begin to burn, don't forget to support your teams and do your bit to end poverty... Every bit counts. Just $20 will provide medical supplies for a month for someone living with HIV/AIDS in South Africa.. and $150 will pay a teacher for a whole year in East Timor.
Doesn't take much, you don't even need to walk anywhere - simply click here to get on board with a team donation now!
BLOG 3: Fri 10:30am - Is that Sally I see through the trees..? 11 Apr 08
Team Which way to Summer Bay?, starring Ryan Moloney (aka Toady from Neighbours) and fellow Treckers Heath, Jarad and James, are on schedule to make Checkpoint 2 this hour. Things are progressing well for the guys... although Ryan was heard to mutter something about spotting Sally Fisher in the distance. Should be drinking more water perhaps?
In the meantime, the gorgeous girls from Women on the Run and Dashing Divas are trailblazing ahead in 6th and 7th place respectively.
To support women in some of the world's poorest countries, you can give a gift of $135 to pay for a women's self help group in Cambodia. Or you can get girls up and working with $100 for microenterprise skills training for a Mozambican women.
Give a girl a go! Click here to make your donation now....
BLOG 4: Fri 11am - Hoplite. Hope much. 11 Apr 08
Oxfam favorites, The Hoplites, have not only volunteered countless hours of time with Oxfam over the years, but these legends (Barry, Desmond, Khanh and Lieu) have raised a whopping $6,737 for TRAILWALKER this year.
Team Hoplite stats to date:
Current Placing: 359
Time walking: 2 hours, 20 mins
Checkpoints past: 1
Team members still enjoying the scenery: 3.5
Blisters: 0 (but signs of 2 appearing)
TRAILWALKER stats to date:
Number of walkers: 2,600 brave people!!
Number of portaloos: 85
Number volunteers helping: 800
Number of bananas and apples consumed: 7,500
Global Poverty stats to date:
children hungry right now: 1 billion
people displaced by conflict: 34 million
people killed in war this year: 500,000
children who'll die of poverty during TRAILWALKER: 56,000
You know what to do. Make a real difference: SUPPORT NOW.
BLOG 5: Fri 11:30am - What's in a name? 11 Apr 08
Well if the name is anything to go by... we've got some veeery interesting teams out there in the big old bush.
For starters, there's slightly scary: Psycho Scrub Turkeys, Pain is weakness leaving the body, Nutters Strike Back, and Determinators. Yikes! Make way for those guys!
Then there's the optimists: It's all good, There's no 'me' in Team, and Blisters without borders. Bless them.
The realists: A momentary lapse of reason, South Eastern Idiots, Are we having fun yet? and Stupid is as Stupid does...
Some curious counters: 3 Dishlickers and the Plumber, or 3 Cockroaches and a Mexican, 4 Ronnies...
and the soon to be disappinted: I thought you said it was 10ks.
a rose by any other name... would DONATE NOW.
BLOG 6: Fri 12midday - LUNCH TIME! 11 Apr 08
It's barely past midday and already two teams are beyond Checkpoint 4! Our leaders from the get-go, Team Muttley and Best Boys, have trained hard and are showing the results today. Amazing performance boys.
Even more awesome, between them these teams have raised over $2,000 for Oxfam's work in 28 of the world's poorest countries, which is enough to build a whole water reservoir in Laos!
Keep up to date on the teams' progress with the Team Results, to see if either Team Muttley or the Best Boys can top past the TRAILWALKER record held by the Nepalaese Gurkha's: 11hrs and 27mins.
BLOG 7: Fri 1pm - "Tigger" Ackerly a top performer yet again 11 Apr 08
Current frontrunners, Team Muttley have passed Checkpoint 5 and are headed through the mountains.
Muttley, team member, Bryan Ackerly, is a seasoned endurance runner, orienteer and Rogainer (which for the uninitiated means navigating – while running - in the bush at night. Hardcore, yeah?). This guy has won accolades left right and centre.
This isn't his first race through the Dandenongs, Bryan has several Puffing Billy runs under his belt. Plus he's had top performances at Ultra events, a 55min Run for the Kids, his Olympic Dream 10k debut in 36min and the best of the lot being a 20min improvement to run the Melbourne Marathon in 2:54 - the first KRR marathon runner under 3 hours in many years. A little birdy suggests he does endurance events as 'training'.
Let's just say they don’t call him “Tigger” for nothing. The guy bounds!
Last year’s winners, the Dashing Divas are currently in 7th placed, putting in a fantastic effort also.
BLOG 8: Fri 1:30pm - Spare a thought for the first-times 11 Apr 08
It's not all seasoned walkers out there today. TRAILWALKER newbies, Aesop, were soft-footed and nervous as they headed out with the 10am starters. They're now an hour past Checkpoint 1 and heading for Lysterfield, which places them 572nd in the field.
Aesop stats to date:
Team members on fire with enthusiasm: 4 (but waning)
Team members with blisters: 0 (but increasing)
Team members with a wife in Control Centre: 1 (will remain static)
Wherever they come placed, and whatever hour of the day or night or following day they arrive at Finish, Aesop have raised a magnificent $2,295 for Oxfam's work - which makes them legends already.
Support your team now. Make the pain worth their while.
BLOG 9: Fri 2pm - How good is this?! 11 Apr 08
A very good question. And for team How good is this? the answer is - pretty darn good. The guys are currently placed a very respectable 20th, and after 6 hours of walking, have covered more than 46kms. This puts them between Checkpoint 4 and 5, in the heart of the Dandenongs.
The guys, Geoff, Travis, Anthony and Matt, recently completed the Six Foot Marathon. 45 Kilometres of gruelling hill tracks through the Blue Mountains... so they're well prepared for the rolling D'nongs.
Their support team are tracking them on bicycles (tricky terrain!). Which reminds us to take a moment and thank all the Support Crews. These faithful friends provide the physical and practical support to make the walk possible for each team, not to mention the morale-boosting emotional support.
Hands together for the Support Crew. Now about YOUR supporting role... CLICK HERE.
FAQs - Your questioned answered 03 Apr 08
Here is a list of the common questions we have been asked over the past few weeks:
Q- What do I need to do if a new walker is joining my team?
Login through your Teamspace and get the Change Of Team Member Form from the Team Admin area. If you do not have a password then click on request a password in the Team Login area and a password will be emailed to you straight away. (remember to provide the same email address you provided during registration).
Q - What if existing team members have changed their contact details or emergency contact details?
You have until 5pm Wednesday 9 April to email us the new details at trailwalkermelbourne@oxfam.org.au or click here to do it now. Don't forget to tell us who you are and what team you are walking in. If you have other updates after this date you will need to bring them with you to the Start.
Q - What if I haven’t signed the waiver?
You have until 5pm Wednesday 9 April to send us the Waiver. All those who have not sent us a signed copy of the Waiver would have received one or two emails from us in the past fortnight as we have been busy chasing after these. Every participant must sign the Waiver Form prior to starting so to help save time on the morning of the Start, please sign and return your Waivers asap.
Q - What time should I arrive at Jells Park on the 11 April?
At least one hour prior to your scheduled start time.
Registration for the 7.00am start will open at 5.30am.
Registration for the 8.30am start will open at 7.01am.
Registration for the 10.00am start will open at 8.31am.
Please be at Jells Park early so that you have plenty of time to register and don’t miss the start. Remember that your official event start time will be 7:00am 8:30am or 10:00am so if your 5 or 10 minutes late then this is time you have lost by being late. To see your Start Time go to your Teamspace on the Trailwalker website click here.
Q - What food is available at checkpoints?
There’ll be fruit, bread, jam and peanut butter, hot soup, tea, coffee, muesli bars and chocolates available for free for Trailwalkers only. However, teams should note that this food is a back-up and your support crew should be carrying more substantial food for you to eat. There’s nothing like the promise of a decent meal to spur you on to the next Checkpoint! Local community groups will be at Checkpoints 7, 8 and the Finish catering with hot food, drinks and various snacks so support crews should carry cash if they want to enjoy these offerings.
Q - And if I’m thirsty?
There’ll be water available at all Checkpoints and also along the Warburton Trail. Our sponsor Gu Sports will also be supplying us with Gu Sports Drink and Gu Energy Gels but again, we would ask that teams ensure their support crew is prepared with plenty of sports drink and gels as we can’t guarantee a 48 hour supply of these.
Q - I am confused about what to eat and drink during the event
Check out the information on our website by clicking here or look in your Safety and Training manual.
Q - Help! Training walks are giving me blisters!
Blisters are real and they hurt! We have dedicated a whole section on our website to Blisters. Click here to see Blisters info on the website. You should also refer to your Safety and Training manual. It can be very worthwhile to make an appointment to see a podiatrist in the weeks leading up to the event. There will be some volunteer Podiatrists at manyof the Checkpoints during the event.
Q - Where can we pitch a tent?
Private Camping is available at all Checkpoints from Checkpoint 4 (Olinda Reserve) to the Finish (Wesburn Park). You cannot book camping space in advance. There is also some limited sleeping space available at CP5 (Silvan Reservoir) CP7 (Woori Yallock Primary School) & CP8 (Milwarra Primary School). There is no charge for the camping or sleeping space facilities.
Q - What is the sleeping space?
There are a limited number of sleeping spaces set up at CP5 (Silvan Reservoir) CP7 (Woori Yallock Primary School) & CP8 (Milwarra Primary School). The sleeping space is simply a large room where Trailwalkers can get some rest. There may be a thin mat to lie on depending on how many other Trailwalkers are there when you arrive. These spaces are very limited and are on a first come, first served basis. There is no charge for the camping or sleeping space facilities.
Q - Can we book the camping / sleeping space in advance?
No. There is no need to book a camping space and the sleeping spaces are on a first come, first served basis.
Q - How do I find out who has donated to my team?
Go to www.oxfam.org.au/trailwalker/melbourne/ and search for your team. Once in your Teamspace check out the Thank You list on the right hand side of the page. You should also be receiving an email each time a donation is made to your team.
Q - Can people who donate cash or cheques have their name appear on the website?
While only the online donors appear in the Thank You list on your Teamspace, many teams have been thanking their other donors by mentioning them in an article and fetauring this in the Teamspace. To add an article Login in through the Team Login area.
Q - Can overseas donors donate via the online system?
Yes, as long as they have an accepted credit card – Visa, Mastercard, Amex or Diners Club.
Q - Help! I am not getting any emails
Our records must have an incorrect or old email address. Send the trailwalker Team an email at trailwalkermelbourne@oxfam.org.au and we’ll update your details in the database.
Q - I’ve filled my sponsorship book!
Send us an email, state how many books you would like and the name of the walker who will be looking after each book. If we do not get all these details, we cannot issue new book(s).
Q - When do I need to submit my fundraising?
We ask that all teams aim to return their sponsorship books prior to 30 May so that we can tally up sponsorship books in preparation for the Awards Night in July. Of course we will still accept fundraising after 30 May but would ask that you make all efforts to get your fundraising finalised before the deadline.
Q - What is matched funding?
Many employers have a matched funding program whereby they will match dollar for dollar the amount you or your team fundraise for charity. To find out more about Matched Funding click here.
Q - Can I send a media release to my local paper?
Yes! In fact local papers are crying out for good news stories from the community. There is a sample Media Release which you can send to your local news outlet along with 100 word and 250 word descriptions which you can use. To access these click here.
Q - How do I explain to potential sponsors where the money goes?
Check out the information within your Information Book, otherwise check out the Oxfam website www.oxfam.org.au/donate/wheremoneygoes.html
Q - Where can I stay out on the trail?
Check the Yarra Valley Visitor Information Centre at www.visityarravalley.com.au/visityarravalley.asp - there are plenty of accommodation options available and the Centre can even make your booking for you.
Q - Do Checkpoints open and close?
You may have seen opening and closing times mentioned in your map books. All checkpoints are open continuously until the time listed. Sweep Teams will come through behind the last teams to ensure all participants still in the event have moved safely on towards the next checkpoint.
Q - Can my support crew walk with me on sections of the trail?
Yes, but they are walking at their own risk. We would ask that support crews do not accompany teams in the first couple of sections as the field is moving as a pack at this stage.
Q - Does my Support Crew need a Cap Park Pass?
No. We are not issuing Car Park Passes this year, however our long standing rule of 'One Car per Team' still applies so please ask only one of your Support Crew cars to park inside the Checkpoint site. If your crew has another car they should park outside the Checkpoint and walk in to meet you.
Q - Can I still get a snazzy t-shirt or other Trailwalker merchandise?
Yes. We will have merchandise and t-shiirts available for purchase at the Start at Jells Park and the Finish at Wesburn Park.
Q - All my friends want to volunteer!
Good - we need their help! Please ask any potential volunteers to contact Grace Daley on 03 9289 9218 or email trailwalkermelbourne@oxfam.org.au
Q - Can friends and family cheer me across the finish line?
Yes! The Finish will be a big celebration for you and your supporters so you are welcome to invite as many people along as you like. We are planning a Family Fun Day @ The Finish this year, with Music, Entertainment, Activities for the kids like Jumping Castle & Balloons and heaps of great food, coffee and a massive Bedouin style Tent. The more the merrier!
Briefing Night on Tuesday 1 April 27 Mar 08
The Oxfam TRAILWALKER Briefing Night will be held next Tuesday in the BMW Edge at Federation Square. The Briefing Night is recommended for all Trailwalkers, especially first-timers as well as Support Crew. On the night we will be distributing Support Crew Information & Map Books, presenting key safety & logistics information and making ourselves available for Q&A at the end. There will be door prizes and other giveaways. Teams who are not able to attend the Briefing Night will receive their pack in the mail later that week.
While there are two session times to choose from, the 6.30pm session is oversubscribed so if you can make it along at 4.30pm then please do so as there will be more space and you'll have greater access to the event organisers if you need to ask any questions etc. There is no need to RSVP, just turn up on the night.
Safe Walking at Night 20 Mar 08
Training is now in full swing and we have been hearing all of your stories of walking at night from getting completely lost, walking into poles and strange encounters with the public after dark. We would like to remind you of the following safety information:
"Walking at night requires special vigilance on the part of all team members to reduce the risk of injury. All team members should carry a torch with extra batteries."
We would also like to recommend that teams walk in groups of at least three.
Happy Trailwalking!!!
New map section for CP3 - CP4 now available 05 Feb 08
We have recently made chang
es to the Trailwalker route between CP3 & CP4 following the closure of Crooks Rd and Piriander Gardens in Olinda. We now have the new map segment available here.
Instructions for the new route
When you exit Boucher Lane (Step 14 in your mapbooks), turn left instead of right (on Perrins Creek Rd) - 300m along you will find Hacketts Rd - take Hacketts Rd to the top of the Piriander Gardens and resume the mapbook directions at Step 18 (continuing along Hacketts Rd until you reach Olinda-Monbulk Rd).
Please park in the main carpark area at Jells Park 04 Feb 08
One of our Trailwalkers has informed us that multiple car burglaries took place at one of the remote car parks at Jells Park recently, with valuables taken out of 3 different vehicles on one day.
As such, we would like to emphasise that Trailwalkers please use the MAIN CARPARK area near the Teahouse as this is a much safer option. Enter the car park from the bottom of Jells Road near the corner of Waverley Road.
Teamspace Instructions on the web now 21 Jan 08
Want to build your Teamspace but don't know how? The Oxfam Trailwalker Team have created some instructional videos that will show you how to master your team's web pages. There are five short and sweet tutorials which will show you how to:
- Get a Password and Log in
- Change your Team photo
- Add stories and images
- Create a newsletter
- Create an Ecard
To access the videos go to:
www.youtube.com/user/OxfamTrailwalkerAust
REGISTRATIONS CLOSED 18 Jan 08
With over 650 teams now fully registered for the 2008 Oxfam TRAILWALKER, registrations have officially closed.
For those teams who are on the waitlist, we will endeavour to keep you informed of the situation and offer you a team place if and when they become available.
For those teams that missed out all together, we'd love to hear from you and keep you in the loop for Oxfam TRAILWALKER 2009. If you have not already done so, please subscribe to the Trailwalker eNews to receive regular updates throughout the year. We are expecting to open registrations for the 2009 event in early October.
For those still wanting to get the Trailwalker experience and have some fun why not bring some friends out for the weekend and help out us out as volunteers? We need over 800 volunteers to help make the event go smoothly. For more information see the Volunteers section of the website or call Grace Daley on 03 9289 9218
Information Night talks now available on the web 07 Dec 07
Over 400 people packed out the Melbourne City Conference Centre for the Oxfam TRAILWALKER 2008 Information Night on Wednesday, November 21st. As well as receiving Emma & Tom's Life Juice upon entry, a number of great speakers treated the guests with Trailwalker stories and anecdotes as well as survival tips and advice on everything from training and preparation, building a team, how to make it to the finish line and how to fundraise.
The talks can be found via this link:
www.oxfam.org.au/trailwalker/Melbourne/teamspace/training/videos.aspx
Guest speakers include:
* Toby Cogley (Paddy Pallin & experienced Trailwalker)
* Anna Beetham (Podiatrist - survival techniques)
* Jackie Attard (2007 Trailwalker - trials and tribulations)
* Merilyn Newnham (successful Fundraising tips) and
* Brett Long (How to make use of your Teamspace)
Get your Teamspace Login & Password now! 19 Oct 07
The best fundraising tool you have is your very own team page on the Oxfam TRAILWALKER website. We call it Teamspace. Teamspace is where you promote you team and where your supporters can make easy online donations.
What is Teamspace and what can it do for you?
+ Tell the world all about your team: the characters, the mission etc
+ Proudly display your fundraising target & progress to date
+ Post pictures of your team
+ Advertise your upcoming Fundraising events
+ Keep a blog / post stories / articles
+ Send e-newsletters to your potential supporters
+ Display your top donors (show them off!)
+ And much more
We have provided your team with a nice blurb and a lovely Oxfam Trailwalker image to get you started, but we want your Teamspace to be about you. The more you can tell your supporters about your team, the more encouraged they will be to sponsor you. First thing you need to do is get yourself a password.
To get your password, simply click on "Get a password" next to the Login button in the Team Login area then enter your email and hit Submit. Now go to your email inbox and voila! You now have your password and access to the greatest fundraising tool known to man… your very own Teamspace!
2008 Dates & Trail confirmed! 26 Jul 07
We are happy to announce that dates for 2008 are confirmed as 11 - 13 April.
And there are a few changes to the trail this year further to the fire issues and section closure we had in 2007.
We anticipate that by moving the date that bit later and having worked closely with Parks Victoria to identify trails with lower fire risk, we'll truly be able to complete 100km this year! Don't let us down Melbourne...
www.oxfam.org.au/trailwalker/melbourne/trail/
Bring on Oxfam TRAILWALKER Melbourne 2008! 13 Jul 07
Dates for Trailwalker 2008 will be confirmed in the coming weeks and we anticipate that they will fall in early April. If you’re considering taking on next year’s event, please make sure that we have your latest mailing address and/or email address.
Registrations open on Tuesday 2nd October 2007, so be sure to register early!
If you don’t want to miss out on next year’s event, please make sure you:
• Bookmark www.oxfam.org.au/trailwalker/melbourne and check it from time to time
• Have subscribed to the Melbourne Trailwalker e-newsletter
• Are ready with a complete team of four on Tuesday 2nd October 2007 when we open registrations
If you think your details aren’t up to date, please email us at trailwalkermelbourne@oxfam.org.au
Thank you! 13 Jul 07
THANK YOU Trailwalkers and your supporters for all for your amazing fundraising efforts! Over $2.2 million has been raised so far for the works of Oxfam Australia.
The money you raised builds better lives for some of the world’s most disadvantaged people. To see the difference you make and where we work, take a look at the Oxfam Australia website at www.oxfam.org.au/trailwalker/melbourne/oxfamswork
We are still on the hunt for sponsorship books! We need your books back even if you haven't used them. Please let us know if you’ve lost, misplaced or thrown away your book and we’ll send you a Statutory Declaration to fill out and send back.
Please send your books ASAP to: Oxfam Trailwalker, 132 Leicester St, Carlton VIC 3053
If you have any questions, feel free to contact us on 1800 088 110 or via trailwalkermelbourne@oxfam.org.au
Please note: credit card payments to cover cash collected, where a receipt has been given to the donor from your sponsorship book, should not be made using the online facility. Please send us a cheque/money order or fill in your credit card details in the front page of the sponsorship book to cover cash donations. Please DO NOT send cash!
What an Awards Night ! 06 Jun 07
A huge thank you to everyone who came along to celebrate with us on Tuesday 5th June Awards Night – what a great night! The BMW Edge in Fed Square was a wonderful venue for us to celebrate in - we felt like we were at the Oscars!
Being Melbourne's 5th birthday we had a special award for the 25 people who have been crazy enough to do at least 5 events with us. The first few teams across the line were also recognised as well as the company who together raised the most amount between them: Tabcorp's 6 teams raised $95, 719!
Team 81, RSY, blew everyone away with the most amount ever raised by any trailwalking team in Australia - $80,821!! Congratulations also goes to team 208, Diamonds in the Rough, who won the Asia Miles / Cathay Pacific draw and will be heading Hong Kong way to tackle the ups and downs and humidity of Trailwalker in November.
And then there was the State Street Overcoming The Odds Award… presented to Annie Hayward who showed amazing strength and determination to overcome personal adversity to take part in the event. We’ll let you know which Oxfam program that Annie decides to donate her $4,500 award to.
And finally, a special thanks to all you super fundraisers: 98 Gold Teams raised a total of $176,324; 19 Platinum Teams raised $262,950; and 4 Diamond Teams raised a whopping $224,411!!
Thanks to everyone who helped make the evening so memorable and look forward to doing it all again next year...
Overcoming the Odds 20 Apr 07
Our principal sponsor, State Street, sponsors Trailwalker events right around the world. They also support an amazing award called Overcoming the Odds.
This award is given to a walker who has overcome personal adversity to participate in Oxfam TRAILWALKER. The recipient of the award receives a $500 cash prize and will also have $4,500 donated to an Oxfam program of his or her choice.
It’s up to Trailwalkers to nominate one another for this prize.
If you believe a team mate of yours overcame the odds to take part in the 2007 event, email us or fax us their story by 18 May 2007.
