CAMP Quality trekkers Carol Compton and Jodi Cooper have returned from a 16 day, 240 km trek of the Larapinta Trail in the Northern Territory.
Camp Quality cares for children with cancer and their families.
The Tomaree locals joined 12 others, who combined raised a staggering $90k.
The Newcastle office alone costs $900k a year to operate, so this is an amazing fundraising achievement.
To give some idea of the money it takes to run this vital service, 30 children at mini camp costs $9,250, 30 children at junior camp is $27,800 and 30 at middle camp is $44,600.
The Newcastle office is currently caring for 179 children.
Carol said that the highlight for her was climbing Mount Sonder, one of the Territory’s highest mountains, to see the sunrise.
Carol told News Of The Area, “It was fantastic. I loved every minute of it. The scenery, the people, the travel company.”
The party spent 11 nights in swags and four nights in large, canvas tents.
Jodi told News Of The Area, “It was wonderful. Such a great group of people. We all got on so well.”
Carol and Jodi have now become good friends.
Jodi also explained that knowing what the money was for spurred her on during the trek, and she thinks it is one of the best things she has ever done.
She recommends it to anyone, as it pushes you out of your comfort zone and is literally life-changing.
“We are stronger than we think we are,” she said.
“These awesome ladies would like to thank everyone who donated or supported them in any way.
Carol is not having much of a rest though, as she is now throwing herself into being a Support Crew Manager for Camp Quality’s next event, a 1000 km cycle ride in September.
By Sarah STOKES