Registrations open for Lifeline Mid Coast Push-Up Challenge

LIFELINE Mid Coast is urging locals to register now for The Push-Up Challenge, Australia’s largest mental health and fitness event.

The tenth annual challenge runs from 3 to 26 June.

Community members are encouraged to sign up as individuals or teams, with funds raised directly supporting Lifeline Mid Coast’s vital local services.

Lifeline Mid Coast CEO Catherine Vaara said registering for the challenge is a powerful way to make a difference.

“The Push-Up Challenge isn’t really about push-ups, it’s about starting conversations, breaking stigma, and reminding people that mental health affects every family, every workplace, and every one of us.

“From our Lifeline Mid Coast Centre, our team answered around 26,000 calls last year.

“Behind every number is a real person reaching out for crisis support, and that care extends beyond the phones through the support programs, community education, and training we deliver here for local people.

“This challenge helps ensure we can continue to provide local support when it’s needed most.”

Participants of all ages and abilities can take part while raising funds, with daily targets linked to important mental health facts.

Individuals aim to complete 3,307 push-ups across 24 days to honour the 3,307 lives lost to suicide in Australia in 2024.

Those who find push-ups too challenging can set a personalised goal, substituting exercises such as sit-ups or squats.

“I haven’t done many push-ups in my life, but I’ll be stepping up and taking part, and I invite others to join me,” said Catherine.

“Together, we can show that mental health is something we stand up for as a community.”

Founder Nick Hudson said the event has already made a significant national impact.

“What started as a simple fitness challenge has grown into a fun way for every Australian to connect with their community, get fit, learn about mental health and honour the lives tragically lost to suicide.”

As the challenge enters its tenth year, it has already encouraged more than one million Australians to take a proactive approach to their fitness and mental wellbeing.

It has raised more than $60 million for mental health services nationwide, with organisers expecting those numbers to continue to grow.

By registering through Lifeline Mid Coast, participants ensure funds raised stay within the region, helping to deliver crisis support, education and community programs.

To register visit the Lifeline Mid Coast website: lifelinemidcoast.org.au/push-up-challenge.

By Sis HIGGINS