
EACH year, 3307 lives are lost to suicide in Australia.
Now in its 10th year, The Push Up Challenge is on 3 June to 26 June.
Participants will do 3037 push ups in 24 days to honour the lives lost, raise funds for charities, and generate conversational change around the challenges faced by people experiencing mental health difficulties.
Many participants have opted to donate their funds raised to Lifeline Mid Coast.
“The challenge is a powerful way to encourage conversations that can save lives,” spokesperson Boni Lornie told News Of The Area, .
“The Push-Up Challenge is a great opportunity for people across the Mid Coast to talk about their mental health, learn how to support each other and recognise when they might need to reach out for help.”
“It’s a big goal, but our community is stepping up, getting involved and making a real difference for their own wellbeing and for others.”
Each day, participants complete push-ups while learning a mental health fact, with the number of push-ups changing daily to reflect important statistics.
For those who prefer alternatives, options such as half the target or exercises like squats, sit-ups or tailored activities are available, all tracked through a dedicated app.
Member for Port Macquarie Robert Dwyer has been doing push ups in State Parliament as part of the challenge. Mith many workplaces, schools and community groups have formed teams across the region.
Community members are encouraged to support the cause by donating to their favourite team and helping drive local impact.
Lifeline Mid Coast will also host a thank you and catch-up event before the Challenge wraps up, giving participants a chance to connect, celebrate their efforts, catch up on push-ups, or simply have a conversation.
By Rachael THORPE

