About The Smith Family and the Great Wall of China Trek

By choosing to fundraise and take part in this once-in-a-lifetime adventure, our trekkers are making a life-changing difference to young Australians in need.

The money raised will be enough to sponsor one tertiary level and one junior school student for a full year, providing all the educational essentials they need and making a huge difference in their lives. Already this team has raised over $67,000… visit their team page and cheer them on by making a donation -> The Smith Family’s Team Page

FEELING INSPIRED?

• Visit our image gallery: COMING SOON!
• Follow the conversation on Twitter: @InspiredAdvntrs
• Visit The Smith Family’s Team Page 
• Support the team members:
• 4 on a Wall (Kerry, Leith, Tom and Mick)
• Justine 
• Sarah
• Donna
• Therese
• Kerry
• Esther
• Rebecca
• Olivia
• Rachel
• The Hicks/Rickett’s Family (note: no longer going to China but still fundraising!)

Sun. 21 Apr: They came, they ran, they conquered!

With five minutes left on the 21st of April 2013, I feel I’m just in the knick of time to debrief on what was an incredible day.  Team Inspired Adventures Virgin London Marathon 2013 were up bright and early at 7am prepped and ready to hop on an 8am bus to the start line, where there would be no escape!  The sun was shining, the sky was bluer than blue, and spirits were high.  ”We’ve come this far, may as well run the bloody thing,” Anita told us.  Some brilliant wisdom as the day began to unfold.

At 9:45am the starting horn sounded and the runners were away!  I was leading up the cheer squad, which was perched excitedly just before the 12-mile marker with flags, blow horns, and inflatable hands that were all the rage with the 36,000 runners.  All of our “kit” was, of course, emblazoned with the Australian flag.

Our runners zoomed past us one at time.  The first person we were able to catch a glimpse of was Udit, who was on fire in the first half.  After him came Carlo who was in such a zone, he ran right past us and told everyone over dinner that he didn’t even realize it was his wife and the cheer squad!

They were followed by Michael, who became the Inspired Adventures all-time greatest fundraiser, topping $50,000 while running in memory of his wife for Leukemia Foundation.  After Michael we saw Melissa and Martelle but somehow missed Anita and Lorraine.  They may have been hidden behind the giant fire hydrant, rhino costume, or gingerbread man!

The whole team regrouped this evening for a celebratory drink and dinner.  They recounted war stories before dozing off at the table around 8pm.  A classy bunch!  It was a day like no other and writing as someone who ran the London Marathon in 2012, this is an event that certainly tops the list of life experiences.

So, what are you waiting for?  Isn’t it time to sign up for team 2014?

Fri. 19 Apr: Getting ready to run!

Our 2013 London Marathon team have arrived and are resting up and preparing themselves for the big race on Sunday. Here’s a weather update from the organisers:

WEATHER UPDATE: Sunday’s looking dry most of the day. Starting cold at 2c and rising to approx 13c by afternoon. 3-8mph S-SW winds. #VLM2013

— VirginLondonMarathon (@LondonMarathon) April 19, 2013

Inspired Adventures and the 2013 Virgin London Marathon

This year, we are proud to have 12 runners in the Virgin London Marathon. They are representing Cure Cancer Australia Foundation,the Leukaemia Foundation and Variety, the Children’s Charity. Collectively our 12 runners have raised $165,000 for these great charities.

Team Fundraising pages:

• Leukaemia Foundation
• Variety, the Children’s Charity
• Cure Cancer Australia Foundation

The London Marathon starts at 9:30am on Sunday 21 April 2013 (London time). Inspired Adventures will be tweeting updates from around 6pm on Sunday evening (Sydney time). Join us online using the following Twitter handles/hashtags:

• @inspiredadvntrs
• @CureCancerAust
• @LeukaemiaAus
• @VarietyAU
• @LondonMarathon
• #VLM2013

Read more marathon stories, secure a place in the Virgin London Marathon 2014 or visit the Inspired Adventures Calendar and find a Charity Challenge perfect for you.

Thu. 25 Apr: ANZAC Day

An early rise for a very special Anzac Day ceremony in honour of the soldiers who lost their lives here, as well as all the Anzacs.

Unmarked graves at Brigade Hill

The trekkers will continue through the jungles to Efogi 1, a peaceful village which marks the halfway point of the trek. From here it’s onwards to Naduri village where they will be able to rest and reflect on the ceremony this morning. It was here on this very track that so many lives were lost fighting to protect our young nation. What a moving place place to be for Anzac Day.

Team Lifeline will have a chance to rest, wash clothes, and join in some traditional celebrations later tonight. This is the village where the head guide, Andy, comes from so the Fearless Leaders will be receive a special welcome as guests of honour. No doubt a traditional ‘Sing Sing’ (celebration) will take place.

Wed. 24 Apr: Brigade Hill

Today the Lifeline Fearless Leaders will begin the long ascent up Brigade Hill, taking it slowly and surely. Brigade Hill was the scene of a major battle in September 1942 where 101 Australian soldiers lost their lives. Tomorrow morning we will rise early to commemorate their lives, and the lives of other Anzacs, in a special dawn ceremony.

Tue. 23 Apr: Menari

Today is a great day on the Kokoda Track – it’s mostly downhill! That said, it is by no means a walk in the park. The Fearless Leaders will encounter varying terrain as they make their way towards Menari village. Descending down the Maguli Range, they’ll cross swampy flatlands and the Brown River. They will have to dig deep to push themselves onwards in the rising heat as the day wears on. Nearing Menari, the Fearless Leaders will realise that what goes down, must come up! To reach Menari, they will have to take on a short but steep ascent before the final descent into the village. Menari Village is the site where the brave 39th Battalion were withdrawn from the campaign on the eve of the battle at Brigade Hill, while the remaining ‘Ragged Bloody Heroes’ struggled back to Port Moresby, exhausted and on the brink of total collapse.

Mon. 22 Apr: Naoro Village

Our @lifelineaust #FearlessLeaders will rest at Naoro after a steep climb on the #Kokoda track. @trektraka map -> ow.ly/khrow

— Inspired Adventures (@inspiredadvntrs) April 22, 2013

Sun. 21 Apr: Ua Ule Creek

The challenge Begins today. This is what the team have been training for both physically and mentally for the last few months. The trek starts at the South of the Kokoda track, with an aim to reach the North end by day 9. Already the team have been able to delve into the history of the area they are walking through, with a visit to the Bomana War Cemetery en route to their first campsite.  A big reminder to the team of the strength and character of our Australian veterans. Aside from the emotional connection to our soldiers, the team also experience the back-breaking ascent of Imita Ridge. The team was welcomed by a swimming hole at Ua Ule at the end of their big day. Spirits are high on day one, as the team rest their heads surrounded by rainforest trees that form a perfect frame for the star filled night sky.

Sat. 20 Apr: Fly to Port Moresby

And they’re off! Team Lifeline are enjoying a comfortable short flight from Australia to Port Moresby, an opportunity to sit, reflect and take in everything they’re about to take on! The team arrived safely at the Holiday Inn, where they can enjoy a dip in the swimming pool and some serious carb loading before the start of tomorrows big adventure.

Fri.19 Apr: One sleep to go!

It’s finally here! Brendan, Mark, Troy, Brian, Graham, Benjamin and Carolyn are making final preparations before their flight to Port Moresby tomorrow. We wish them all well on their adventure through the jungles of Papua New Guinea.

Here’s a map of campsite that they will be staying at during their trek. Be sure to follow the time live on the GPS map.

Image from www.trekkokoda.com.au

ABOUT THE LIFELINE AND THE FEARLESS LEADERS KOKODA CHALLENGE 

Each day 6 Australians are lost to suicide. It’s a startling figure yet at Lifeline, it is believed most suicides are preventable. So do the 7 Lifeline supporters, who are heading to Papua New Guinea (PNG) to trek the mighty Kokoda track to raise vital funds for Lifeline Australia. The Fearless Leaders Kokoda Challenge Team have successfully fundraised over $55, 000 for Lifeline Australia!

The funds raised will go directly to the lifesaving support services that Lifeline gives to Australians in crisis, the access to real time, one-on-one, online conversation. Lifeline believes that access to support and intervention in times of crisis can save lives.

Now the real challenge begins… On 20 April, the team board their plane to PNG to walk in the footsteps of Australian soldiers on the legendary Kokoda Track.

Every member on this incredible team has fundraised well beyond their original fundraising targets; they truly are fearless leaders!! We wish this team an incredible journey. You can follow Brendan, Mark, Troy, Brian, Graham, Benjamin and Carolyn live as they make their way along the track. Click here to view the GPS map.

FEELING INSPIRED?

• Visit our image gallery: Coming soon
• Follow the conversation on Twitter: @InspiredAdvntrs, @LifelineAust, #FearlessLeaders
• Visit the Lifeline Fearless Leaders Fundraising Page

Read more trip stories from Kokoda or visit the Inspired Adventures Calendar and find a Charity Challenge perfect for you.

Big adventures for little people… by Justine Curtis

My passion for travelling started at around five years old when my folks took me on my first overseas holiday from the UK to Spain. Back then, Spain was still under General Franco’s rule and it was very different to the UK. I vividly recall the sights, smells, tastes of different foods and experience of that ‘other’ world! It was my first adventure and it is one that I will never forget.

Fast forward a few decades, and my thirst for travel and new experiences has grown stronger through the many adventures I have had since that first trip to Spain. I’ve spent a year backpacking through India on public transport; hiked through Mexico; trekked the Himalayas; traversed across the Indonesian archipelago and have forged countless happy memories through travelling to incredible places in every corner of our beautiful planet. I’ve even experienced some of those life-changing situations that have lead me to where I am today – running a busy charity challenge fundraising agency.

Experiencing the world with children…

I’m now a mother to a 4 year-old girl and conscious of the positive impact travel had on me at a young age, I am wanting to share that experience with her. I am keen to expose my daughter to the joys of travel and the cultural exchanges that come with it.

Last year, I decided it was time to do something a little more adventurous than spending holidays at family-friendly resorts close to home. Those Christmas’ in Fiji were wearing a little thin – the pained look on the underpaid staff’s faces; the buffet day-after-day; endless hours in the pool; and basically swapping our habitual life of routine to head for a different routine of breakfast, swim, lunch, swim, then dinner. I stuck with it for a couple of years because this is what a family holiday should look like, right?

Don’t get me wrong… I do appreciate this type of holiday and I realise just how privileged we are to be able to take time out and enjoy some family downtime. However after a couple of repeat experiences, I was very keen to share something more and Bhutan was the chosen destination! (see ‘Bhutan with my 3-year-old’)

Over the course of 10 days, we shared a real adventure together. We trekked in the stunning mountains (she on the back of our wonderful guide). We drank butter tea with monks in monasteries. We stayed at a home-stay with a Bhutanese family of four generations living together under the one roof. My daughter had the opportunity to play with a five-year-old girl and transcend cultural and language barriers that adults struggle with. They didn’t have a single word in common but they shared the commonality of childhood bliss and innocence. It was a priceless moment that I was delighted to witness. As our adventure continued, we ran through fields of prayer flags and stompas (temples); we crossed rope bridges; and we spun prayer wheels. We were gone for ten days but it felt like we were away for months!

The birth of Little Inspired Adventures…

For me, travelling to exciting new destinations has made me feel more present and alive than ever. The opportunity to now share that experience with my daughter and see the journey unfold through her eyes is invaluable.

This has led to the creation of Little Inspired Adventures – adventures for families with a difference. Our first adventure has just launched and we are pleased to be able to offer families around Australia an experience to discover Sumatra. This family-friendly adventure is in support of the work of RSPCA NSW. The Sumatra Challenge 2014 includes lots of adventures and experiences that will excite and thrill people of all ages – no matter how big or small. It includes a visit to an orangutan rehabilitation centre as well as 3-days camping with the aim of spotting orang-utans in their wild habitat. There are some jungle treks and a 3-day homestay in an eco-village with ample opportunities for cultural exchanges with the local community and their children. We have also included an opportunity to get your hands dirty as you experience some hands-on organic farming and tree-planting. There’s even a chance for the little ones to learn some practical first aid during a short-course run by an Australian doctor. Just imagine the delight of seeing your child spot an orang-utan in the wild!

Seeing the world with eyes wide open…

I see change coming about for the world through shared experiences. I truly believe that if we can start at a young age we can create something incredible for the world both globally and locally in our own communities. Our children are our future and giving them greater insights into our world at an early age can only be a positive step towards creating a better future for everyone.

Feeling Inspired?

• See more information on the RSPCA Family-Friendly Sumatra Challenge 2014
• Read more trip stories
• Learn about Justine’s adventure in Bhutan with her 3-year-old
• Take part in the upcoming Black Dog Ride to Happiness Bhutan 2013

Read more from Justine’s Corner and our trip stories or visit the Inspired Adventures Calendar to find a charity challenge perfect for you.

Pre-Kilimanjaro: the beginning of my journey…

This journey for me started in February 2012 when Jenny Croaker mentioned that she was climbing Kilimanjaro for Guide Dogs NSW/ACT.  For some time I had been looking for a way to give back to this amazing charity so this was it!

I have been a client of Guide Dogs NSW/ACT since my mid teens, some 20 years.  I’ve been blind from infancy, having both eyes removed due to bilateral retinoblastoma (cancer of the retina of the eye in both eyes). Guide Dogs staff members started teaching me cane skills as a teenager and were there for me in all my transitions from school to university and college life, further studies and work. They taught me how to reach locations safely and independently as well as technical training in GPS and other equipment to help me navigate through the environment. They also provided my two most precious gifts in my guide dogs Wendy and Meg.

So it was as simple as that.  Within the day of hearing about this crazy challenge, I had signed up. I had no idea at that point if anyone who was blind had ever tackled this mountain, but I figured that if it was for Guide Dogs then it must have been presumed that clients would want to take part, and therefore it must be possible. Absolutely crazy and completely illogical thinking on my part, but thankfully it was true! I did not even know where Kilimanjaro was and my first challenge was learning how to spell the mountain’s name!

Image Coffs Coast Advocate

Kilimanjaro for fitness and weight loss: a personal goal for transformation…

I wanted a physical challenge because I knew I had reached my lowest level of physical fitness ever in my life, and my highest weight.  Certainly not points to be proud of and I knew I needed something like this to get me motivated and fit again.  I also knew I had a long journey ahead.

Training was challenging, especially in the beginning. I felt like I wasn’t getting any fitter!  I seemed to bounce from injury to injury requiring time out of training, and I felt like I’d be back where I started from.  Slowly my fitness grew. I mainly focused on cardiovascular fitness to begin with, using exercise machines like cross trainer, bike, step machine and treadmill. Training became more fun once Jen started her regime and we trained together.  I was much less fit than she was and hence had to start training much earlier.

We tackled some challenging walks through national park areas to get used to trekking on uneven surfaces. One trek was quite difficult and it took much longer than anticipated due to my slowness in navigation. It certainly made me realize just what a significant challenge was ahead for me. I also learned through this trek that the descent was slower than the ascent!

We also incorporated some strength training into our plan. We had the support of a local business, CrossFit Armidale who gave us free access to their classes as often as we wished, or were able, to attend. It added variety to our training and improved our core and limb strength. We felt strength was important for carrying our day packs and general ability to navigate over the rocks and uneven surfaces. Descent also required significant strength in our legs due to flexed knee position and speed control.

Staying motivated and focused on training… and fundraising!

In order to stay motivated to train, I found variety was helpful.  Also having someone to train with made it far far easier. I could train for much longer while Jen and I were nattering away about all kinds of things. Also, the fear of not being fit enough was a good motivator, as was constantly reminding myself of why I was doing this challenge.

The other obvious and significant component to pre-event was fundraising. Fortunately for me, Jenny and I decided to work together on this. We increased our target significantly, and aimed to raise $30,000 between us. We were amazed at the generosity of many in our local community. Fundraising in a smaller rural area meant we were well known among the community for what we were trying to achieve. It also meant that we had to do many smaller events to achieve our target rather than receiving larger amounts for a few big events.

Almost every weekend we were doing something – market stalls, movie events, trivia night, and even barbecue! Shopping centre stalls were very popular, particularly when we had amazing support from local breeders who brought along their young Labrador or golden retriever pups to grab attention. The cute factor certainly worked and it also gave a tangible representation of what we were trying to achieve – the purchase of pups to assist Guide Dogs NSW/ACT establish their own breeding programme. We undertook an online auction which was also very successful, thanks to the promotion of this through media and Jenny’s efforts on Facebook.

From www.guidedogs.com.au

We experienced disappointment at times, which were opportunities to learn a lot about fundraising in smaller communities.  Much effort went into many applications for sponsorship and support. We received some amazing support from local and family businesses who did what they could. Armidale World Of Hire gave us a donation of $1000 to Guide Dogs, as did Armidale Country Women’s Association (CWA). BJN Graphic Design gave me $500 towards gear costs for the trek, which was very much appreciated.  Adventure 195 supported us throughout the year with great advice and discounts on any gear we purchased from them, very valuable since I had no idea about trekking and the variety of gear we would need.

Charities helping charities…

When fundraising for a charity, it is amazing to receive support from other charities. Apart from CWA, some of our local Lions and Rotary Clubs also made donations. We even had promotion of our event through Labradog Rescue and Rehoming, Golden Retriever Rescue and Labrador Rescue. Labradog Rescue raised $250 for us through hosting a donation tin on their table at one of their major fundraising stalls in Sydney. Very generous given the function of their presence was to fundraise for their own charity.

Despite disappointments we hit our target… together.

One of our major disappointments was having to cancel our Christmas in July ball due to low ticket sales. This reinforced to us the need to undertake many smaller activities where attendant numbers could be lower and still make some profit for Guide Dogs NSW/ACT.

When we achieved our target we were both very excited and amazed to have done so. I was fortunate to have been able to work with Jenny on this project. She is an incredibly creative, talented, passionate and skilled person who was able to create many of the flyers, posters, displays and Facebook posts that I had no idea how to undertake.  Visual aspects I find particularly challenging, and these visual presentations are so important in terms of obtaining exposure and attention.  I will always be very grateful to Jen and the huge amount of time, effort and energy she put into this challenge for us.

The Mighty Kilimanjaro

On 25 November 2012, I flew out of Armidale bound for Tanzania, Africa, for a life changing trip. Here’s a photo of us at Sydney Airport waiting to board our international flight:

I felt uncertain and apprehensive as I left; wondering if I was capable of climbing Mt Kilimanjaro. Many said it was incredibly hard, but definitely worth the challenge. I couldn’t imagine how it could be rewarding, given some estimates I’d read said that a third and up to a half of people who attempt Kilimanjaro do not succeed. However I was with a great team (see above image) and this included a very skilled emergency physician, Dr. Steve, who was ready to intervene if any of us showed any signs of altitude sickness. We were taking a route that was longer but allowed us to acclimatise and we also had a very experienced team of Tanzanian guides and porters to support us. Even still, I knew it would be difficult, and probably the most difficult thing I’ve ever done.

“Team Doggies” is born…

We were a team of 10 Australians and we called ourselves “Team Doggies” because we had raised funds for Guide Dogs NSW/ACT. We had 6 Tanzanian guides, with an extra 3 for summit night. We also had a team of 39 porters and cooks so we were incredibly well supported and we were in great hands.

There were two of us in the trek team who were totally blind.  Myself, and a Melbournian Henry Macphillamy.  We each had a very experienced guide to help us the whole way.  The team also rallied around us as much as they possibly could; certainly not easy given they were facing the tremendous challenge and newness of the experience for themselves.

The trek took 5 days and 1 night to reach the summit, and 2 days to return down the mountain via a different route.

An adventure full of ‘firsts’…

Climbing Kilimanjaro brought a number of “firsts” for me.  It was my first encounter with long flights – a sum total of approximately 20 hours flying time each way! Also, camping was a real eye opener. The first night I wondered whether it would be camping that would bring me undone. By day 2 the shock had warn off and I started to get into the groove of camping.

On top of camping and long flights, there were cultural differences; hygiene issues given we would not be showering; limited hand washing (we made great friends with hand sanitizer); and we were used to very different methods of toileting. Our supporting team spoke Swahili, although most of them were very skilled speakers of English as well. Then there were the obvious physical and psychological challenges to contend with, so I could safely say it was challenging on all levels and very different to what I was used to on a day to day basis.

Then there was the mountain, and the altitude.  We had to walk very slowly.  “Pole pole” we would constantly here from our guides–Swahili for slowly slowly.

I was very fortunate regarding altitude sickness. I couldn’t seem to sleep more than 3 or 5 hours a night.  I’m not sure if this was the altitude or whether it was due to not having any light perception so my body clock may not have reset properly. I’d fall asleep but then lay awake for hours afterwards. I experienced some nausea, loss of appetite, some headaches and some dizziness. I couldn’t think clearly and my usual problem solving skills seemed to be completely absent! But talk about emotional–I don’t think I’ve ever been so teary before. I was relieved to discover it was a normal part of altitude, but I also think for me it was testing me on all levels and many times I found I struggled with the challenge. I find it particularly difficult to ask for help and during this challenge I constantly needed assistance. Being in a different camp each night meant I never really learned my way around, so I couldn’t even go to the toilet without help to find it! And speaking of camps, I am phobic of rodents and at one camp there seemed to be a plague of them. Of course, it had to be the only camp on the whole trip at which we spent two nights!

The ascent and the thin air…

As we ascended I found I became increasingly breathless. Small tasks such as climbing out of the tent, standing up quickly, walking slower than I’ve ever walked in my life–and I’d still be breathless. On summit night I was literally counting steps at one point. I’d say in fifty double steps I can have a rest, and then it became 50 single steps, then in 30 steps, 20 steps, and 5 steps! I’d often say to my guide, Elias, “small rest”. Of course we couldn’t rest for long due to the cold, and a few seconds rest didn’t result in any significant decrease in my rapid breathing.  “Breathe deeply” Elias would say, but I just couldn’t seem to get my breathing under any real control. It was as though I was running, and yet I was walking as slowly as possible! Often when Elias had to navigate me over particularly tricky ground, he would say “wait” as he stood and looked for the best path to take. My response on these occasions was to say “happy to wait, small rest”. We would laugh. I was happy to take any rest that was on offer, no matter how brief!

I’ve often been asked if there was a point at which I felt like quitting.  I can’t say that there really was.  There were definite points at which I wondered and worried that I’d not be able to make it, that I wouldn’t be strong enough emotionally or determined enough.  There were certainly times when I wished and hoped we were closer to the summit than we were!

My guide, Elias, was incredible.  I’m sure that guiding Henry and I wasn’t a task that just anyone could do, so we were so fortunate to have guides with such a lot of experience.  Elias had climbed the mountain hundreds of times, all routes.  He had never guided or summited anyone who was blind before.  The first day I think he spent much of it observing and learning.  He listened to the words members of the team were using around him to tell Henry and me what was in front.  Gradually he started using these same words.  He held on to me just above the elbow on the left side almost all the way.  At times he’d have to walk behind or on my other side due to the terrain.  However, he’d often walk very close to an edge with a significant drop off, walk over far tougher rocks, or where there was no trail, just to be able to continue to stabilize me and direct me as required.  To have someone walk beside you and take such a difficult route to enable you to walk an easier path is incredibly humbling–and my gratitude for his assistance I have to say lead to the majority of my tears.

Elias (see image above) and Peter (Henry’s guide) worked incredibly hard for us to ensure we achieved the summit. They had to constantly tell us where to place our feet and what was in front:

“Step up”

“big step up”

“small step left”

“big step down to the right”

“narrow”

Often when we were most tired, I’d do the opposite to what Elias had said; and sometimes he’d say the opposite to what he meant. At these times we would just stop, say “sorry”, and laugh. Then keep going. I joked with Elias on the descent that he would either be dreaming these words for weeks, or instructing his family and friends on how to navigate the house!

On summit night we left Kibo Huts (summit base camp) at around 11pm. Or at least we were meant to, but I got two beauty nose bleeds. Dr. Steve helped me stop them – a nose bleed mid walk would have been a challenge. We couldn’t stop for too long because we would cool down; I do not know what temperature it was, maybe minus 10-15 with significant wind chill factor, but it was the first time I’ve experienced frozen water bottles!  The wind, particularly at the summit, was incredible. I also had two trekking poles, one in each hand, which I needed to use to balance myself and use to feel the ground. To then have to hold my nose and walk would have been very tricky. Steve did a great job, and I didn’t get another bleed until heading down after the summit!

We trekked, and we trekked and we trekked. There was a point at which I think I started to panic a bit. The terrain became quite tough with steep rocks, and I was no doubt tired.  The breathlessness was much worse. I felt I needed to use my hands as well as my feet to scale the rocks. I started to hand the trekking poles over to Elias and his response was “no”. I took a deep breath and continued on walking. Again I felt my instincts telling me to use my hands. Again I offered the trekking poles to Elias to take for me and again he refused. “But it might make it easier” I tried to explain. “No”. He said, “You will hit your head”. Of course he could see the overhanging rocks that I could not.

“I have done this many times, I know what to do.  I have hold of you, you will not fall.  You must trust me”.

And of course he was right. He’d climbed this mountain hundreds of times, and he’d showed me many times that he certainly did know what he was doing. I knew I trusted him absolutely and completely.

To trust someone so completely with our safety isn’t something we often experience in such a conscious way. Especially someone we’d only met a few days before! I did not fall once and I did not receive any injuries. Elias was absolutely incredible! I will always be grateful for his skilled presence and strength.

What I learned about strength on Kilimanjaro…

One of the things that really struck me from this trek was that strength isn’t about achievement with little or no difficulty. Strength – true strength is about being challenged, often having many challenges, but continuing on anyway. Both of us, I believe, found strength we didn’t know we had that night. After scaling an area of challenging rocks we reached Gilman’s Point. Elias said to me: “do you want to continue, it is two more hours”.  I said “yes”.  His response was a deep breath and a quiet “ok”. It was then that I realised just how absolutely exhausted he was. I’d found it tough, but he had found it just as hard as me, probably far harder than me, for different reasons. The guides were incredibly fit but the concentration this took from him and the sheer strength to support me was enormous. This, to me, was true strength and true courage. He continued on as enthusiastically as always, because I wanted to. This is why I say it was just as much an achievement for him as it was for me – probably more so for him in many ways.

Approaching the summit…

Elias and I plodded and plodded and plodded – and I puffed and panted and kept asking for a “small rest”. About 20 minutes out from the summit Elias’ voice changed and became more excited. “You are going to make it” he said. I wasn’t as certain as he was just yet!

  “ten minutes to go”,

“5 minutes to go”, “4 minutes to go”, “3 minutes to go”,

“2 minutes to go”, 1 minute to go”,

“30 seconds”,

“you are there”

He counted me in, and we hugged at the summit, and I, predictably, cried!  We reached the summit just before 8am. I felt such a mix of emotions. Most of all was gratitude, then elation, relief, and pride. I felt proud of Elias for his amazing achievement in getting me to the top of that mountain, especially never having lead or guided a person who was blind before, just incredible! I was proud of our team and all we had accomplished and all we had sacrificed in order to be there.

We spent maybe a minute or two at the summit to grab photos, due to the high wind levels. Then it was the descent! As I flagged earlier, descent is just as slow, if not slower, for me. I still needed the constant directions of where to place my feet. So the descent was quite a challenge. This was partly due to the fact that it was much slower than for the rest of my team. Henry and I made it all the way down to the sign which indicated we had 2 hours to go. Here the path intercepted another smoother path and so we were taken from there by Jeep to the final gates to meet up with the rest of the team.

Henry decending

One of the miracles of the trek is my desire to go again. From someone who was apprehensive and uncertain, not sure if I really could or wanted to do this. I’d love to do it again and maybe Mt Meru too. Certainly no serious climbing mountains where things like pick axes, shovels and crampons are needed–Kili was certainly enough of a challenge for me.

Advice for those considering taking on Mt Kilimanjaro…

With regard to what I would advise anyone wishing to take on this challenge, I would stress the importance of having a great team. This, to me, was why I made it to the top. It isn’t “my Kilimanjaro” experience but “our Kilimanjaro” experience. Also, physical training, and perhaps this could include some deep breathing training as well. I did a little of this, but I don’t think I did enough. Having great gear is important. Also, I felt particularly on summit night that eating was very difficult, so having liquid energy drinks were great (when not frozen) or hard confectionary that I could suck on as I walked. Thanks Emma for those life saving Honey and Eucalyptus! Not only did they help by providing much needed energy, they also helped with the cough that I experienced, probably due to rapid breathing but also the amount of volcanic grit that was being blown about.

When I think of what Kilimanjaro has given me, the feeling that most comes to mind is gratitude. I am so grateful for having been able to have had this experience, and for the friendships I have made as a result. I also know that the feeling of strength and sense of achievement at having reached the summit of Mt Kilimanjaro will always remain with me and I have, since returning home from Kilimanjaro, had to draw on this feeling to get through some challenging times. I know this feeling will always be there, and will be strengthened by a future visit! While an obvious highlight of Kilimanjaro is achieving the summit, probably more important for me was the feeling of team spirit, comradery and the friendships I have made.

Your support got me there!

I am incredibly grateful for everyone’s support. Whether this be donations to Jen’s and my target of raising $30,000 for Guide Dogs; the purchase of merchandise at our stalls; the attendance at our various fundraising events; the many words of encouragement and support; and the phone calls I received from people when I returned home just to find out how it was and how I was feeling. Our families were also incredible: attending events, making many donations of goods and money, even staying at my home for the two weeks I was away to look after the house and my 5 dogs and 6 cats! This challenge wouldn’t have been possible without your support, so most importantly of all, thank you!

Here’s a great video of our porters celebrating our successful summit:

Read more trip stories from Kilimanjaro or visit the Inspired Adventures Calendar  and find a Charity Challenge perfect for you.

Such important opportunities available to women in Australia and other developed countries is the direct result of social and governmental investment in women and the ability to recognise the vital role women play not just as caregivers, but as business women and community leaders.

In the beginning…

In an effort to further promote the concept of equality and empowerment of women worldwide, the United Nations General Assembly in 1977 invited member states to proclaim March 8 as a day to celebrate women’s rights and world peace. Although not a new concept (the Socialist Party of America celebrated their first national women’s day on 28 February 1909), celebrating the contribution women make to family, community and the economy has been steadily increasing. Unfortunately though, not fast enough to compete with the myriad changes and challenges faced by women in developing countries.

Improving women’s rights and opportunities…

As a result of rapid population growth, armed conflict and disease, countless efforts to improve women’s rights and opportunities in developing countries have often been unsuccessful. Currently approximately only half the female population of developing countries will complete schooling, resulting in approximately 75 million girls remaining uneducated. Of those that do have access to education, many will be forced to leave school and enter into marriage or the workforce. In fact, 90% of the child workforce in developing countries is made up of girls aged between 12 and 17.

Inspired Adventures and Plan Australia: Cycle for Girls 2013

This year, Inspired Adventures, Plan Australia and a group of dedicated fundraisers celebrated International Women’s day in Siem Reap, Cambodia as part of their 2013 Cycle for Girls, a trip to also be recreated next year.

Overcoming barriers to women’s equality: education and health

Plan Australia believe educated women have the potential to not only move themselves out of poverty, but greatly contribute to the economic and social stabilisation of their communities and countries. Through education, Plan aims to reduce gender inequality in developing countries and narrow the economic disparities between men and women. Educated women in developing countries have the opportunity to own and manage property and invest in technology to increase productivity as well as launch income-generating and entrepreneurial ventures. The funds raised for the 2013 Cycle for Girls supported Plan Australia’s ‘Because I am a Girl’ campaign.

Addressing another key barrier to women’s equality in developing countries is the Barbara May Foundation, who in conjunction with Inspired Adventures, will take on Mt Kilimanjaro in 2014 to ensure women in developing countries have safe maternal health care during pregnancy and labour. Of the half a million women who die each year during or soon after childbirth, almost 99%, are in developing countries. This equates to a childbirth-related death approximately every 60 seconds and for every woman who dies, about 30 develop a labour-related injury, including obstetric fistula, a condition which causes constant incontinence resulting in health complications and social ostracism.

When presented in facts and figures, the issue of women’s equality seem insurmountable. However, with the dedication of our charity partners, fundraisers and newcomers, anything and everything is achievable.

“…we can as women and with women, change poverty into opportunity and look forward to creating a world without limits for all women.” Justine Curtis, founder Inspired Adventures

We leave you with a video put together by Plan Cambodia. They received our 2013 Cycle for Girls team and invited them to hear firsthand how access to education is important for girls.

To all of you inspirational women out there, we want to be a part of your fitness and fundraising revolution! Go online to www.inspiredadventures.com.au to see how you can make your mark.

Henry Macphillamy and Deb Warren have both been blind from infancy and acutely understand the challenges faced by Australia’s nearly 300,000 vision impaired. For Henry the support of Guide Dogs NSW/ACT meant he was paired with Billy the Beast, a beautiful brown Labrador who not only became a best friend, but who embodied unprecedented freedom, expanded horizons and endless opportunity. As a client of Guide Dogs NSW/ACT since her mid teens, Deb has fond memories of the support she has received from this organisation. From teaching her to use a cane and assisting her transitions from school to university and beyond, to presenting her with her two guide dogs, Wendy and Meg, Deb feels she is where she is today as a result of Guide Dog NSW/ACTs continued support.

So we thought we would ask both Henry and Deb why they decided to take on this challenge and what they feel they achieved…

What on earth prompted you to take on this adventure in the first place?

For both Henry and Deb, the decision to take on this amazing adventure was an impulsive one. Both blind from a young age – Henry was born blind and Deb had her eyes removed as a result of cancer of the retina as an infant – their main motivation was to give back to an organisation that has given so much to them. Henry, a little bored with his law subjects and wanting to do something in memory of his late guide dog Billy, decided to sign up on a whim. He says it was literally a case of “bugger it, I’m climbing a mountain” and then the next day researching exactly what he had gotten himself into. For Deb, having no idea if anyone who was blind had ever tackled this mountain before, the opportunity to give back to Guide Dogs NSW was the most important thing. Her biggest concern upon signing up was learning where Mt Kilimanjaro was and how to spell it!

How did you keep motivated and focussed on training?

Both Henry and Deb were determined to be fit enough to do everything they were physically capable of. Henry says by talking to people who had completed the climb, he was under no illusion as to just how hard this challenge would be. For Deb, knowing she had reached her lowest level of physical fitness and highest weight (points she says she is really not very proud of), undertaking this trek required making a commitment to hours of training everyday. For both adventurers, strength and altitude training was essential, as was the support of their family and friends. For Deb, the support of her friend Jen was invaluable. Jen, who Deb says is much fitter than her, encouraged her to sign up and offered to act as her guide during training treks and everyday fitness training.

In addition to being physically able to complete the adventure, both Henry and Deb were determined to achieve their fundraising goals. Henry says the donations he received kept him motivated. While for Deb, understanding the challenges of fundraising in a small community and being able to overcome them and reach her target was inspiring, making her even more determined to succeed in this adventure. Both Henry, and Deb with the support of Jen, individually raised over $30,000. Henry was pleased to know he had personally raised enough money to care for and train another guide dog like his beloved Billy. As a group, ‘Team Doggies’ raised over $113,000, far exceeding the objective set for the challenge.

What was the highlight of your adventure on the mountain?

For both Henry and Deb, the opportunity to climb Mt Kilimanjaro with such a supportive and encouraging team was very important. Deb experienced many of the lows associated with altitude sickness, including nausea, dizziness and headaches, coupled with the challenge of always having to ask for assistance on the mountain and at the camps, even just to find her way to the bathroom. However, for both Henry and Deb the support of their guides was their lifeline to the summit. Henry says when they reached the summit of Mt Kilimanjaro, his guide was ecstatic. Together they jumped in the air, acted like crazy men and embraced.

Jokingly, Henry says his poor guide would probably end up muttering instructions in his sleep as to where Henry was to put his feet for a long time to come. For Deb, reflecting on the journey that led to her summit success is most important to her. After a challenging trek herself, Deb says she only just realised how exhausted her guide was about two hours from the summit. Although very experienced on Kilimanjaro, the sheer concentration and strength her guide required to support her up the mountain was enormous. Upon reaching the summit, the group celebrated their achievement in the same way they had climbed – together.

Here’s a short clip of Henry and Deb on the mountain:

What have you taken from climbing Mt Kilimanjaro?

“If you put your mind into doing something, there’s every chance you’ll do it” says Henry, who was also humbled by the support he received from his family, friends and community. For Deb, her experience on the challenge bore the realisation that strength isn’t only about achievement; “true strength is about being challenged, often having many challenges, but continuing on anyway”.

What advice do you have for anyone considering taking on this challenge?

Both adventurers couldn’t stress enough the importance of training and having the right gear. Henry says:

“…be sure to look at the packing list very carefully and don’t skimp on anything, because the one thing you considered packing and didn’t, is the one thing you’ll wish you had when you’re on the mountain!”

For Deb, having the right people around her was the most important factor in her summit success, “this, to me, was why I made it to the top. It isn’t my Kilimanjaro experience, but our Kilimanjaro experience”.

Speaking of the people who help us on every summit attempt, here’s a short video of the team of porters who supported Team Doggies (Guide Dogs NSW/ACT) reach the top of the tallest freestanding mountain in the world, Mt Kilimanjaro:

Inspired by Henry and Deb’s experience? Read more…

• Visit Henry’s blog at www.macphillamysmusings.wordpress.com
• Read Deb’s full blog: Deb’s Kilimanjaro Adventure

Guide Dogs NSW/ACT aim to enhance the lives of people who are blind or have impaired vision by assisting their achievement of independence through access and mobility. This in turn increases confidence, ability and dignity. As their name states, they do raise and train guide dogs for people who are blind or have impaired vision, but it’s not all they do. Guide Dogs NSW/ACT offer a range of services from training people to use canes, canines and electronic aids to improve their mobility, to advocating on behalf of people they assist to make their community an easier place in which to live and work. Guide Dogs NSW/ACT offers these services free of charge and do not receive any government funding, however in 2012 alone, their staff travelled 750,000 across Australia to instruct in mobility, improve facilities and support the vision impaired in their communities.

Inspired Adventures has 9 adventures to Mt Kilimanjaro in 2013 for a variety of charities. Although a very physically and emotionally challenging adventure, the reward of summit success is only paralleled by the achievement of fundraising for your charity. As with Henry and Deb, the decision to participate in a challenge on a whim can lead to the most amazing experiences of your life.

To view all our upcoming charity challenges http://www.inspiredadventures.com.au/calendar/

For more information on Guide Dogs NSW/ACT http://www.guidedogs.com.au/home

Read more trip stories from Mt Kilimanjaro or visit the Inspired Adventures Calendar and find a Charity Challenge perfect for you.

Training for your Inspired Adventure can be made easier using smart phone technology to track your progress. It also helps to stay motivated, focused and enables you to share your fitness achievements with friends. Most mobile apps include share functions that will broadcast your achievements and your progress as you train. While your friends and family probably aren’t interested in hearing about every single workout and every bead of sweat you generate, sharing some of your training milestones with them is a great way to keep them abreast of where you are at with your training… and fundraising!

Making your training ‘social’ shows your commitment to the challenge you have undertaken and proves that it is no easy feat to reach the summit of Kilimanjaro, trek through the jungles of Borneo or cycle across Southeast Asia. Your friends and family will be able to read your updates while they are enjoying a lazy Sunday breakfast (or recovering from a big night out) and they will be able to appreciate the effort you are going to for your Inspired Adventure. They will be impressed that you have completed a 25km training hike in the rain while they are only just sitting down to eat breakfast!

ROAD TESTING TRAINING APPS…

Here some great apps that we have come across to boost your fitness and add some fun to your training plan:

Nike+ (free)

The Nike+ app allows you to add friends and strangers which is great for a little healthy competition. Using GPS technology, Nike+ tallies your total KMs from the moment you start using it. The app uses gamification strategies to keep you motivated. It tracks your fastest kilometre, 5kms, 10kms and other achievements, unlock badges and prizes as you hit these milestones. Imagine what it feels like after months of training to see the total amount of kilometres you’ve run; it will probably be in triple figures!

We know this app well as Rachael, one of our Fundraising Coordinators, is currently training for a half marathon (with the hope of running the London Marathon for Inspired Adventures or one of our charity partners in the future). Rachael regularly uses Nike+ to track her runs. She says that just knowing that other people can view her running log really motivates her to whack on her joggers and just get out the door. Her runs are no longer personal… they are social and her friends and family are with her every step of the way.

Map My Run ($2.99)

This app has a separate computer log-in which allows you to create running goals, running routes and store further information. Using GPS technology it will alert you to every 1.6km you have run or walked, and the pace per KM.

ZombieRun ($4.49)

For a bit of fun, how about pretending that you are running from a Zombie apocalypse? You will hear commands through the headphones that inform you how close the zombies are – maybe running for your life might make you go a little faster?

Runkeeper (free)

Runkeeper is also based on GPS and will track a number of different physical activities including running, walking, cycling and it allows you to input your training manually if you do a session at the gym. It will even coach you through your headphones while you are training and inform you how far you have gone and at what pace. At the end of your activity, Runkeeper breaks down your session by kilometre and averages out your pace. It even generates a map with flags at each kilometre marker. You can connect with friends and share you progress with anyone who is interested (and even with those who aren’t!).

My Fitness Pal (Free)

This is a great app for both fitness and nutrition tracking. Preparing for an adventure can mean changing your diet to match your training needs. This is a good app to monitor calories, protein, carbs and fat intake. If weight loss / lifestyle change is one of your goals for your Inspired Adventure, definitely check this out!

Note for all GPS apps: Be mindful if you are trekking or trail running where there is limited reception, it will be hard to monitor your workout with GPS.

Do you need something to train for? Head to the Inspired Adventures calendar and find an adventure.  

Read more tips to Prepare for your Charity Challenge or visit our Inspired Adventures Calendar and find an Inspired Adventure perfect for you.

Wed. 10 Apr: time to explore Hanoi… and celebrate!

Tue. 9 Apr (Vietnam): Trekking on Cat Ba Island and return to Hanoi

Tonight is the last night for Team Flinders in their Race Across Asia. Over the last two weeks the team has cycled, hiked, kayaked, zip-lined and rock-climbed their way across Southeast Asia. As a whole, they’ve faced many fears, achieved personal bests, surprised themselves each day with what their bodies can accomplish when they put their minds to it! All the while knowing that they have done an amazing job raising over $30,000 forFlinders Medical Centre Foundation for cancer research. Congratulations Team, you really are an inspiration to us all!

Mon. 8 Apr (Vietnam): Cruising, kayaking, and rock climbing in Cat Ba

Some great news from Team Flinders! Spirits are high, friendships have been made and life changing experiences keep on coming their way!

“Team Flinders are truly challenging themselves each and every day of this trip. After cruising through the beautiful karst mountains of Halong Bay, the team landed on a secluded beach and tested their nerves and skill rock climbing. The boys won the kayaking challenge by a whisker, but results are still out for a dual day rock climbing challenge. Team work and trust are the name of the game with team members blindfolded and climbing high up a rock face guided by feel and their team members voice! Amazing spirit and teamwork has been shown by all! Tonight the team rest up for their last full day of racing in beach bungalows with breath taking views!”

Sun 7 Apr (Vietnam): Hanoi – Cat Ba Island

Another day of exploration and adventuring today, as the team rest up for the last leg of the physical challenge starting tomorrow. This morning the team travelled to the port city of Haiphong on the edge of the World-Heritage listed Halong Bay. There are over 350 islands scattered throughout Halong Bay and the team travelled by boat to Cat Ba, the largest of these islands.

Sat 6 Apr (Vietnam): Luang Prabang – Hanoi

The team enjoyed some much needed down time to explore Luang Prabang before they set off towards Hanoi. With an early rise, team Flinders are able to witness first hand the ancient rituals of local monks collecting alms at dawn, followed by trinket shopping at the colourful markets.

Fri 5 Apr (Laos): Kuang Si Waterfall

This morning we have some time to explore the village and soak up our peaceful surrounds. Then we begin our trek through a valley headed towards Kuang Si waterfall.

We had a refreshing dip in the cool water and celebrated Johnno’s birthday with water cascading over calcified tiers all around us. Spectacular!

Here’s a message from Jo, our Tour Escort:

Laos has been spectacular. Starting our visit with a moving back ceremony where we welcomed into a local home and are now all proudly wearing our string bracelets that are to help protect us on our journey. The team spent a night with a hill tribe village, living as they do in basic bamboo accommodation, the bucket shower was a welcome refreshing novelty. Our wonderful local guide KL told us that the loudest chicken would be our lunch, there were many to choose from as local village life starts early! On a hot walk through the smokey jungle we were accompanied by 1000′s   of white butterflies to the beautiful Kuang Si falls. The perfect place to celebrate Johnnos birthday and cool off before our uphill cycle challenge!  Natasha and Dan taking out equal first place! Tonight the group has a well earned rest and a chance to let their hair down before flying to Vietnam for their last leg of the race.

Thu 4 Apr (Laos): Hilltribe Cycling (20km) and Trekking (20km)

Our first full day in Laos and the action begins straight away. We head out of Luang Prabang with the rolling hills and lush green landscape surrounding us. We start off on two wheels until we reach a village called Ban Thin Som. We then started our journey on two feet, trekking through local farms to Kamu village. We finished our trek at the Hmong hilltribe village of Ban Long Lao.

We had the unique opportunity of being invited into a local home and joining in a ‘back’ ceremony. 32 spirits in the body being called back and used to keep family friends and travellers safe. It was beautiful and everyone came away feeling very special to have been part of such a special ceremony.

Wed. 3 Apr (Thailand – Laos): Mountain Biking – 25km

Waking up early, today we left our jungle lodge and hit the bicycles again. We followed a single trail along the mountain ridge to the village of Khun Tha… the panoramic views were breathtaking! The end of the ride saw us on a single track downhill to the base of the mountain where we stopped to visit a temple. After lunch, we transferred to the airport for our short flight to the beautiful riverside town of Luang Prabang in Laos. More adventures to follow…

Tue. 2 Apr (Thailand): The Treetop Adventure

Team Flinders have spent their first night in Thailand at the rustic Pang Soong Lodge. Today they will take to the treetops for some zip-lining action as well as a canopy walk. Team Flinders will really test their ability to overcome fear of heights as the Race Across Asia takes the adventure to new heights! Here’s an update from the ground:

Team Flinders last seen flying through the jungle! After an 8km hike through the hills of Chiang Mai crossing streams and following an ancient trade track, the team headed into the forest canopy for an amazing afternoon of zip trekking. Fears were conquered, the style was outstanding! The ladies are still in the lead with Katie taking out 1st place in the “f is for flinders” challenge with Johnno and Dan coming in 2nd and 3rd!
Words from the team on their experiences so far “exhilarated, jam packed, amazing, unbelievable, it’s gone from crazy to tranquil” with the next stop the beautiful Luang Prabang in Laos their adventure is no where near over!

Mon. 1 Apr (Cambodia to Thailand): Cambodia to Thailand – life in the jungle!

Today Team Flinders flew from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai to start the jungle leg of their adventure. Upon arrival, our unified team were split into two challenge teams – boys vs. girls (with Tour Escort, Jo, joining the boys team to even out numbers). They will spend the next couple of days competing in an outdoor survival challenge.

The teams built shelters, made camp fires to cook their food which they hunted with slingshots (in a round about way). They also made all their cooking utensils and pots and pans out of bamboo and banana palm! We then ate the results! It must be said both teams did an amazing job.
When the points were tallied the girls took out the challenge!

Congratulations ladies your food was delicious, your campfire was raging and your shelter held up impressively to the pseudo storm!

Sun. 31 Mar: Cycling in Siem Reap

A successful and eventful day for Team Race Across Asia today. Cycling through the countryside to visit outer lying temples, our team was cheered on by local kids. We really got to see what rural life in Cambodia was like today!

Briony had a small bingle and is now wearing her battle scars proudly. Lunch was an adventure with a gas bottle exploding in the kitchen. Thankfully no one was injured. Despite the excitement we still had a delicious Khmer meal from our lunch hosts.
The temples were magical and the variety and workmanship of the ancient Khmers is spectacular. One thing for sure, Cambodia is never dull!! More soon….

Sat. 30 Mar: Temples of Angkor Wat

An early start today as we rose to see the sunrise over the spires of Angkor Wat. After a bite to eat, Team Flinders hit the bicycles to discover the sprawling temple complex of Angkor on two wheels. There was even time for a spot of Apsara posing (heavenly dancer).

Fri. 29 Mar: Team Flinders are off!

The big day has arrived. Today Team Flinders will board their flights bound for Siem Reap, Cambodia. This will be the beginning of an incredible adventure that will take them from Cambodia onto Thailand, Laos and Vietnam. Stay tuned for more updates in the coming days.

Good Luck to all those starting in the #RaceAcrossAsia today for @fmcfoundation! Hope you have a fantastic time!bit.ly/10jNI3S

— Everyday Hero (@EverydayHer0) March 28, 2013

Fri. 22 Mar: One week to go!

In exactly one week, the #RaceAcrossAsia begins for our @fmcfoundation supporters who have raised funds for cancer research. Stay tuned!

— Inspired Adventures (@inspiredadvntrs) March 22, 2013

ABOUT FLINDERS MEDICAL CENTRE FOUNDATION & THE RACE ACROSS ASIA

On your marks, get set, go! It’s time for Team Flinders to set off on The Race Across Asia 2013. From cycling in Cambodia to flying along a zipwire in Thailand, trekking in Laos and kayaking and rock-climbing in Vietnam, keep up to date as the 6 brave adventurerers race to the finish line to raise vital funds for cancer research.

The funds raised through The Race Across Asia will help support the leading biomedical, behavioural and clinical researchers who work within the Flinders Centre for Innovation in Cancer (FCIC). They will help establishing and continuing cutting edge research into cancers such as that of the breast, bowel, prostate, oesophagus, ovaries, cervix, kidneys, lung, liver, blood (leukaemia) and brain tumours.

FEELING INSPIRED?

• Visit our image gallery: Race Across Asia (images by Jo Howell, Tour Escort)
• Follow the conversation on Twitter: @InspiredAdvntrs #RaceAcrossAsia @FMCFoundation
• Visit the Team Flinders Fundraising Page
• Join Team Flinders on the 2013 Kilimanjaro Challenge

Read more trip stories from Southeast Asia or visit the Inspired Adventures Calendar and find a Charity Challenge perfect for you.

BLOG FROM TEAM RSPCA – OUR ADVENTURE IN THE JUNGLE

After a long bus ride from Kuching, we stepped onto longboats to begin our journey deep into the heart of the jungle. Weaving our way through flooded valleys and along the turquoise green river, we past clusters of lifeless charcoal treetops that had pierced there way through the waters surface. This surreal landscape contrasted against the red earth banks that protruded back into the lush tropical forest – it looked rather similar to that of a Salvador Dali painting.

We arrived at Mengkak Longhouse in the late afternoon for our first nights stay in the jungle. The chief of village kindly welcomed us by organising a massive feast complimented by some traditional cultural dances. We watched and joined in on the festivities – our first night in the jungle and what a welcome! When the atmosphere slowly started to die down, our mattresses were laid over the floor, kind of like a childhood slumber party.

We were unexpectedly awoken when the roosters begun there ongoing squawking and stretching – surely 5am was too early for a wake up call?! We fought against the noises of nature and lay with our ear plugs in and pillows over our heads for as long as we could but those roosters were relentless! Before long the whole team was up and ready to immerse themselves in the jungle.

At 10am our boats arrived and we continued our journey, stopping off at Jingin longhouse for lunch before starting our trek. The hospitality received by the family at this longhouse was overwhelming and we decided that we would spend the night here on our way back.

Crossing the river was the first hurdle we encountered but we soon realised that this was going to be a regular occurrence. We spent almost an hour trekking upstream in the river. Our boots hung over our shoulders as we battled our way through the leech-infested river to a point where we could finally put our boots back on and continue the challenging accent to our campsite.

There in the heart of the jungle stood two tents constructed from hardwood poles with no doors or walls; only a tarp roof protected us from the outside world. The first tent contained two rows of eleven hammocks, similar to a hospital stretcher so there was little room to move throughout the night. The second tent was our ‘dining’ tent. This would be our home for the next three nights and getting back to basics was tough for some, while others thrived off the experience.

Over the next four days, we trekked for a total of around 18 hours through humid, steep, rugged and incredibly challenging terrain. There were tears and points where some of us didn’t think we could go on. However sheer determination pushed us through the tough spots and we triumphantly met this physically and mentally demanding terrain head on.

Along the way we encountered many critters including snakes, scorpions, fire ants, spiders and leeches. Each afternoon we did a leech count and by the end of the trip,  a total of eighteen leeches were pulled from us! Ewwww!

We were fortunate not to experience rain until our last day of trekking and even then, the dense jungle canopy offered some protection. Emerging from the deeper jungle, our the kind family from the longhouse where we stopped for lunch were ready for our arrival. They lit a fire to help dry our clothes and warm our bodies.

We spent our last afternoon relaxing down by the river, waiting to see what the porters had caught us for dinner. We were extremely grateful when they arrived home with fresh fish – I don’t think anyone could bear the sight of another can of sardines in tomato!

After dinner we leant some hunting skills from the industrious locals. They taught us the methods behind using dart blowers, with each of us having a short at the target. This was only the start of what ended up being an amazing night. Language barriers were not an issue – we danced, sang karaoke, played games and laughed until the early hours of the morning. With confidence I can say that each of us were humbled by this truly incredible experience.

The following morning we were again woken by the roosters. This time we gave in and woke early before having breakfast and saying our goodbyes. The two-hour boat ride out of the jungle gave us time to reflect upon the adventures we had and what we had accomplished in the heart of the jungle.

Well done team RSPCA!

Kristen

Wed. 17 Apr: In search of wild orang-utans – Campsite 2

The team get another chance to spot the wild orang-utans in the National Park this morning. Once the team shake off the early rise, and get some fuel in their stomachs, they could head back into the jungle for day #2 of wildlife observation. The team couldn’t wait to get their eyes into the tree’s and bushes of the forest, as the guide’s took them on the best route’s to spot wildlife and back to the places that were successful in sightings yesterday. Kristen, the team’s Inspired Adventure’s tour escort was very excited about bringing along her binoculars for such opportunities, and today they came in very handy!

Tues. 16 Apr: In search of wild orang-utans – Campsite 2

Today is all about wildlife and wilderness, with the search for gibbons, hornbills, kingfishers, silver leaf monkeys and of course the precious orang-utans continues. The team will stay deep inside the forest for the night, swatting bugs, eating with their hands and sleeping amongst the soundtrack of a National Park at nighttime!

Mon. 15 Apr: Batang Ai National Park – Campsite 1

Sun. 14 Apr: Kuching to Batang Ai National Park

We’re in downtown Kuching at the moment – what a bustling place.Just found some great street food, yum. #borneo bit.ly/YlIROj

— Sarina Louise (@skippingtonxo) April 14, 2013

Sat. 13 Apr: Semenggoh Orang-utan CentreWaking to a beautiful riverside side view of the bustling Kuching certainly provided a warm welcome to what turned out to be an amazing first day. Arriving in late last night, we decided to hold off on going to the Semenggoh Orang-utan Centre until the afternoon which gave us the opportunity have a look around Kuching and purchase those last minute items we forgot to pack or for some have a much needed sleep in. We could hear the thunder start to roll in as we drove out to Semenggoh Orang-utan Centre but were fortunate enough to have an hour there before the heavy rain started and what incredible hour it was. Ritchie the biggest male orang-utan showed us his power and strength as he shock massive trees and broke branches off with ease. Then Seduku the oldest female orang-utan and her baby Ganya put quite a show on, swinging from vines, breaking into coconuts and coming down from the trees, so close that we could almost touch them! We then headed to the local produce market to discover the tastes of Borneo. Jenny was brave enough to munch into a live witchetty grub, making most of us squeamish as we watched. Who knows what other culinary delights we will come across as we delve deep into the jungle tomorrow.

Fri. 12 Apr: Borneo here we come!

What an adventure! As we celebrate the end of Team 1′s Borneo Orang-utan Trek, Team 2 are getting ready to depart.  Collectively the two teams have raised over $110, 000 (no wonder they can’t wipe those big smiles off their faces!) and with the Orang-utan Trek being in high demand, we had to put on two departures. In a stroke of luck, Team 1 and Team 2 bumped into each other at Kuala Lumpur airport in the wee hours of the morning. Team 1 on their way home to Australia and Team 2 on their way to Borneo. Check out this incredible image of the two teams together: 

Pre-Departure excitement builds…

One more sleep til #borneoorangutantrek #packing #nervous #lastminuteshoppingrun @inspiredadvntrs @rspcansw everydayhero.com.au/lukelynch — Luke L (@lynchy2012) April 10, 2013

@inspiredadvntrs @lynchy2012 can’t wait for Borneo, going over my lists and packing. Can’t believe its already here!

— Sarina Louise (@skippingtonxo) April 8, 2013

ABOUT THE RSPCA AND THE BORNEO ORANG-UTAN TREK 2013

When we first launched this adventure with various RSPCA shelters across Australia, we had an influx of animal lovers signing up to take on this fundraising and fitness challenge for all creatures big and small. As a result we now have 2 brave teams, (that’s 28 adventurers!!), heading to the dense jungles of Borneo in search of wild orang-utans. Our second troop of brave wildlife explorers are departing on April 12^th, for a 10-day insight into orung-utan rehabilitation, how to cope with repetitively trekking in 30-degree heat and to enjoy a few longboat rides along the way!

Having raised over $105,000 Team RSPCA have made a real impact in making sure the RSPCA can continue to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals that need our care and attention.

• Visit our RSPCA NSW Borneo Orang-utan Trek images
• See image gallery for Borneo Orang-utan Trek 1
• Follow the conversation on Twitter: @InspiredAdvntrs
• Visit  the Team RSPCA Fundraising Page
• Join the RSPCA NSW Sumatra Family Friendly Trek 2014

Read more trip stories from Borneo or visit the Inspired Adventures Calendar and find a Charity Challenge perfect for you.