Viking Industrial was proud to support our mate Nick D’Arcy, who participated in the Simpson Desert Challenge 2021 for Youngcare Australia.
Nick and a team of 14 brave trekkers and support crew raised funds by completing a 9 day, 250km hike across the Simpson Desert, with the finish line being the iconic Birdsville Hotel.
Committing to the trek means being prepared to face harsh desert heat and never-ending sand dunes. With a resilient team and the satisfaction that they were helping a great cause, the crew made it safely to Birdsville for a few well-earned bevies.
The trek has raised over $950,000, and the team is on track to raise over $1 million!
What Is Youngcare?
Youngcare is a not-for-profit organisation spearheading powerful change for young people with high care needs. Through building high-care housing, providing vital grants, and the Youngcare Connect support line, Youngcare is creating a future where every young person has the freedom and choice to live the lives we all deserve.
Money raised from this trek will go towards building fully accessible, age-appropriate housing for young people with high care needs.
Nick’s Story
We talked to Nick not long after he arrived home to find out more about the experience.
What motivated you to do the Simpson Desert Challenge?
Nick: Ezyquip Hire and the Boarded Group has been involved with Youngcare since 2015, by entering people in the walk, making donations, or offering support of staff and transport in and out of Birdsville. I was asked if I would like to be the person that they send in as a representative of the Group.
For people wanting to take on the challenge next year, any advice?
Training is a must! It’s only walking, but walking up to 45,000 steps per day, with a pack and over sand dunes – it takes its toll on your body.
What did you wish you brought along in your pack but didn’t?
A bigger backpack so I could have taken more clothes. 2 sets of shorts and 2 shirts for 10 days was not fun!
Why did you choose Youngcare as a charity to support?
We chose Youngcare because it’s a wonderful cause helping people with acquired brain injuries still live a young life and not just be placed in an old-care facility. They still can enjoy independence which is important for all people.
How much money did you raise on the challenge?
I personally raised $45,000, and with the entire 14 trekkers, we are sitting at around $950,000 with the hope to hit $1 million.
What was the toughest situation you faced on the trek?
The hardest part of the trek was the first 5 days of straight walking. The body was sore and tired and to mentally get through that was a challenge, but knowing why we were doing it was the kick along. You have to keep telling yourself to “harden up and keep going”, we’re only doing it tough for 10 days, but for the people, we’re raising money for, it’s a lifetime.
Even though the event is over, you can still support the cause and make a donation by following this link.
For more information on this incredible experience, email [email protected] or call (07) 3041 3400.