Great Ocean trek for freedom
The trekkers reach the iconic Twelve Apostles on the Great Ocean Road.
Thirteen people have completed a 44km trek along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria to raise money for The Salvation Army’s Trafficking and Slavery Safe House.
The trek was organised by a supporter of The Salvation Army, Project Futures, which is a not-for-profit organisation fighting human trafficking and slavery.
Accompanied by two guides, the trek started in Blanket Bay on 30 January and finished at the iconic Twelve Apostles 1 February.
The Salvation Army’s Freedom Partnership Campaign Coordinator, Laura Vidal, who went on the trek, said it was an opportunity to share about the work her team does in raising awareness and advocating for victims of human trafficking and slavery.
“Spending time with people who genuinely care about what we do was great. It is such a huge part of my life so it was awesome to be around people who help to inspire and support that,” she said.
The trek was offered through RAW Travel, who work with Project Futures to facilitate fundraising challenges.
Among the trekkers were employees of Project Futures, corporate partners and supporters of the organisation, who each committed to raising $2500. So far, $15,000 has been raised for the Safe House.
Project Futures Chief Executive Officer Stephanie Lorenzo said the organisation was glad to partner with the work of The Salvation Army’s Safe House.
“This service is a direct support to victims who have experienced slavery in Australia. The trek along the Great Ocean Road reminded all of us that we are so privileged to be living in a lucky country. Taking action for people who don't have the same privileges is so necessary in this day and age,” she said.
Walking the Great Ocean Road normally takes seven days, however the assisted walk was completed in three days, travelling by vehicle between certain sections. The group walked for about 10 hours each day.
Laura said while she had to dig deep at times to get herself through the sometimes gruelling terrain, she reminded herself that she was walking on behalf of the Safe House clients.
“One of the thoughts that I had while I was doing this was ‘I am so lucky. I live in this beautiful country. I have the freedom to experience this’,” she said. “And it was so awesome to be walking with people who help to inspire and support the work of the Safe House.”
You can still show your support by donating to Laura’s fundraising page here: projectfutures.gofundraise.com.au/page/LauraV
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