More than 4,000 people embarked on the final Oxfam Trailwalker event in Melbourne last weekend, as the event came to an end after 25 years in Australia.
The endurance event saw more than 1000 teams take on either a 33km, 57km or 87km course over 40 hours, as they raised funds for Oxfam’s work tackling poverty and inequality in communities around the world.
Since its launch in 1999, around 100,000 Australians in various capital cities have tackled the challenge, collectively raising more than $100 million for the anti-poverty organisation.
The trail wended its way through the Dandenong Ranges – including Silvan Reservoir Park, Mount Dandenong, and the iconic 1000 steps – and as of Monday 26 February more than $2 million had been raised.
Matt Parker, who was born with Cerebral Palsy and undertook the 57km trail using a frame to balance that was supported by his teammates at the front and back, was excited to be undertaking the challenge with his group of close friends for a third and final time.
“We have known each other for thirty years after getting involved with Lord Somers Camp. The boys asked me if I would do the Oxfam Trailwalker with them seven years ago – something I would never have thought possible! We did it twice and loved it – all 38 hours of it,” he said.
“With the last ever happening, we are back again, just a group of mates bringing out the best in one another and having a lot of laughs down that familiar path.”
Stefan Krakowiak completed his ninth Trailwalker event, and credits hiking to turning his life around.
“Over the years, Oxfam Trailwalker has helped me to build really strong connections within the community. It has given me purpose whilst keeping me I great physical and mental shape.”
The decision to conclude Oxfam Trailwalker was announced in September 2023, with the organisation citing the importance of evolving approaches to addressing poverty and inequality.
Oxfam Australia chief executive Lyn Morgain reflected on the impact Trailwalker has had on tackling poverty and inequality.
“As Melbourne [concludes] final Oxfam Trailwalker, we are deeply grateful to everyone who were part of this journey, and all those who have played a part in Trailwalker’s long history in Australia,” she said.
“For 25 years, we have been blown away by the unwavering support for the fight to end poverty, and this year is no exception, with participants, volunteers, and community members joining forces to make the final edition a resounding success.
“Trailwalker may be at its end but the spirit of solidarity and the commitment to creating a more just and equitable world will endure.”
