Air Force has issued the ‘first strike’ – laying down the challenge with a unique event supporting Bravery Trek.
Air Force, together with Bravery Trust, is holding an overnight Friendship Run during Exercise Pitch Black, uniting with the Darwin community to show gratitude for all who serve our country and to help remove any stigma associated with seeking help.
Current and ex-serving members, local community groups and politicians will run an overnight Dusk till Dawn relay, going to distance to support the work of national military charity Bravery Trust.
Bravery Trust provides a financial safety net for veterans and their families faced with hardship, and longer-term financial counselling to rebuild lives.
Bravery Trust Chairman Steve Patrick said the event would unite Defence personnel from 20 nations with the local Darwin community to raise awareness of the challenges faced by some members when they leave the military, especially following injury or illness.
“Getting people together at events like the Friendship Run provides opportunities to normalise some of those hard conversations about the challenges some people face when leaving the ADF, especially when dealing with mental or physical injuries.
“When we speak openly about the challenges, it can empower people to reach out to expert and tailored services like Bravery Trust for financial support.”
The Friendship Run is the brainchild of Bravery Trust Ambassador SQNLDR Adon Lumley, who will lead a Bravery Trek Lap of Unity at Dawn on the 1st of August.
While Exercise Pitch Black is an exclusive Air Force event, Mr Patrick called on the broader community to accept the challenge laid down by SQDLDR Lumley and his colleagues and sign up to the Bravery Trek 5-week challenge.
“Everyone has an opportunity to ‘go the distance’ as a way to say thank you to those who serve our nation.
“Bravery Trek is a virtual distance challenge, meaning anyone can participate from any state, anyway, in their own time. Run, walk, roll or swim – all participants have an opportunity to show their gratitude for our veterans and raise funds to support those who have been impacted by their service.”
Bravery Trek registration is free at www.braverytrek.com.au with a complimentary T-shirt for those who raise $55 before 24 August.
