Larapinta trekkers raise almost $120K

A group of 16 trekkers set out to Alice Springs in August for the inaugural Act for Kids Larapinta Challenge to raise awareness and funds for abused and neglected kids. The unforgettable six-day trek raised a staggering $120,000 for Act for Kids.

The group spent eight days in the Northern Territory, with six days of trekking across various stretches of the high ridgelines, for up to seven hours a day. The trekkers covered 100km of the world renowned Larapinta walking trail.

Loretta Bayliss, Managing Director at Prescience Technology said Act for Kids is an important charity to her workplace so it was an easy decision to take on the challenge.

“Every child deserves happiness and Act for Kids’ services provide far better outcomes for children than long-term foster care. I’m inspired by the work they do to keep kids safe in remote Indigenous communities so I just felt compelled to trek across the Australian outback.

“We never expected to raise so much, with an initial fundraising target of $2,000 each. With the support of my friends, family and colleagues we’re able to provide a small contribution that will create better outcomes for generations to come,” Loretta said.

Act for Kids CEO, Dr Neil Carrington, said he was overwhelmed by the efforts and generosity from the trekkers and supporters.

“It was a tough but momentous challenge. As we reached the summit it was humbling to see the smiles on everyone’s faces and be reminded of their commitment to helping abused and neglected kids.

“The funds raised will help us continue providing the best possible support for children and young people suffering from abuse and neglect,” Dr Neil Carrington said.

Dr Neil and Dr Sue Carrington.

A huge thank you to all trekkers and to everyone who generously donated to the Larapinta trek.

You can still support the trekkers by making a donation to one of their fundraising pages: everydayhero.com.au/event/trek