Bess Slater’s dad Greg will be at the forefront of her mind as she tackles the Great Wall of China this week.
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Ms Slater lost her dad to suicide more than two years ago and she hopes the walk will help her to raise funds and awareness about suicide prevention.
Ms Slater, who was inspired to work for Lifeline after her dad’s death, will take on an eight day trek along a remote section of the iconic wall.
“It’s my solo trip in memory of my dad,” Ms Slater said.
The Huma Trek Great Wall Open Challenge takes in the Hebei provine.
Participants will camp with local families along the way, while raising money for their chosen charities.
Ms Slater said money raised from her adventure would go towards crisis support and suicide prevention services in the south-west region.
“I’ve been working with Lifeline for 12 months. With the work that we’re doing it’s really good that I can share my experiences with people and help to build services, like the support group and things like that.
“Any money I raise will help to run those services.”
Ms Slater and her mum did a similar fund-raising trip to Nepal in 2015.
“I had a really good experience when I went to Nepal so I’m really looking forward to it,” Ms Slater said.
“I’m looking forward to others who want to help their community.”
The fund-raising and sustainability manager will explore original sections of the Great Wall and walk about five to six kilometres per day on the trek.
Ms Slater is looking forward to meeting like-minded people from around Australia and hopes the trip will giver her a rare insight into rural Chinese life.
The trek begins on Saturday.
To donate go to humagreatwallchallenge.gofundraise.com.au
Donations go directly to Lifeline South West Vic to help fund its crisis support and suicide prevention services.
- If you or anyone you know needs help, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.