This year, health officer Major Chelsea Loerand is encouraging women to challenge themselves at Coastrek by walking 30km for charity.
“It is a way to raise some money and contribute to some pretty worthwhile causes,” she said.
“It’s also a personal challenge. I love hiking, it’s a good way to exercise and a great way to address a lot of health concerns.”
Coastrek will be held n mid-march. It’s a challenge, rather than a race, that gets women involved and raises funds for the Heart Foundation.
Major Loerand believes Australians don’t understand the risks of heart disease in women as most of the research focuses on men, despite an estimated 20 women a day dying from coronary heart disease.
“An unhealthy lifestyle can largely be avoided with exercise, and what better way to do that than challenging yourself physically with a like-minded group of amazing women,” Major Loerand said.
“I’ve seen the effects of poor health from a number of different perspectives, both within Defence and outside Defence, and I think many people underestimate the impacts these have both physically and psychologically in the long term.”
This will be the second year Major Loerand has participated.
Experienced hiker Lieutenant Commander Karen Dwyer is also participating, having hiked for most of her life.
“I’ve done multiday hikes and have trekked for over 35km,” she said.
“I have gone to Tasmania, Queensland and New Zealand, but my favourite is the Great Ocean Walk in Victoria.
“I love the outdoors, being out in nature and just having conversations while hiking.”
Coastrek was established in 2009 to get more women participating in outdoor adventures.
Before the event, teams are supported with training programs to assist beginners and experienced hikers.
Squadron Leader Karri Roberts’ father has significant heart issues and was supported by the Heart Foundation.
“Especially in provision of services and just advice and emotional support with the health issues he’s gone through,” she said.
“My reason behind doing the track is more than I thought it would be. It’s good to get involved in from a personal perspective. The idea of hiking 30km appeals to me, just from a challenge point of view.”
The three women, along with Colonel Lara Troy, form a team called the City Coaster Cardio Queens who together are aiming to raise $2000 for the cause.
