BEERWAH local, Brian Mason, is tightening up his laces in preparation for the two-day walk from HMAS Diamantina in South Brisbane to Beerwah’s Turner Park, from March 3-4. The walk is part of the March On Challenge supporting Soldier On, a charity which supports veterans and their families in their post-service lives.
“I’m a big supporter of organisations that help returned service men and women, and if I can walk from Brisbane to Beerwah and raise some money to help those that need it, I’ll do it as best I can.”
As his first time completing the month-long challenge, the avid runner and ultra marathon competitor shared that he felt it was only fair to set himself a bigger challenge of completing the 96 kilometre target (the length of the Kokoda Track) over two days.
With some support along the way, Brian’s plan is to head through ANZAC square, Brisbane then make his way home, stopping at memorials in Chermside, Sandgate, Redcliffe, Burpengary, Caboolture, Elimbah, Glasshouse Mountains before reaching the Turner Park Cenotaph; finally he’ll add a few extra kilometres heading home from there.
“It’s not unusual for me to complete that length in a short time so I thought, how can I make this more of a challenge for myself, while still raising money for a great cause,” Brian said.
“So I decided to set myself the challenge of completing it over two days. It took me about three hours to plan the route, which will start in South Brisbane at the HMAS Diamantina and finish at Diamantina, Beerwah.”
It’s all to raise money for a cause close to Brian’s heart, whose father and grandfather both served in the Forces.
Brian said the more he raises for the charity the better and welcomes all the support he can garner, even welcoming people to walk alongside him. Brian expects to reach Beerwah around 6pm on Saturday, March 4.
The March On with Soldier On Challenge is a month-long 96km virtual course in which anyone can sign up and participate. The charity Solider On was founded in 2012, supporting over 5,000 Australian Defence Force (ADF) veterans and their families. For those interested in donating, visit www.marchonchallenge.org.au/fundraisers/brianmason
