Meet 11 remarkable men as they embark on the epic challenge of trekking the Larapinta Trail for Jenny’s Place. Over six days, from 28 August 2025, these Champions for Change will journey 64.5km through some of Australia’s most breathtaking landscapes—from ancient desert trails and soaring ridge lines to the awe-inspiring heights of Mt Sonder.
Their mission goes far beyond adventure: they are raising vital funds and awareness for Jenny’s Place, supporting women and children in our community to escape domestic violence and find safety. Join us as we share what motivated our trekkers to take part, how they’ve been preparing, and more.
Introducing our Champions for Change…
Jason Smith
Why are you taking part in this trek? I’m taking part in the Larapinta Trek to raise both funds and awareness for Jenny’s Place. I’ve seen firsthand how vital the services they provide are for women and children in crisis. While I may not have my own personal story of needing support, I’ve witnessed the impact of domestic violence, and I know how life-changing it can be to have a safe place to turn to. This trek is my way of standing in solidarity, helping to ensure Jenny’s Place can continue their incredible work in our community.
Are you a seasoned trekker or first-timer? What has training been like so far? I’m definitely more of a first-timer. The Larapinta is known as one of Australia’s toughest and most spectacular trails so I’ve been building up my fitness with regular walks and strength training with the team at Sunrise Fitness. The toughest part so far has been pushing through on the days when it would be easier not to, specifially balancing training with work and life commitments. But I remind myself why I’m doing this, and that makes every step worthwhile. Mentally, I’ve been preparing by focusing on the bigger picture…knowing that while the trek will be a challenge, it’s nothing compared to the challenges faced daily by women and children experiencing domestic violence. That perspective gives me strength and determination.
What do you hope this trek will accomplish? For me, the trek is about pushing personal limits, but the real achievement is the incredible amount the team has raised for Jenny’s Place. I also hope this journey sparks more awareness and conversation, so the impact continues well beyond the trek.
What song, quote, or mantra is going to keep you going during tough moments on the hike? I think I’ll probably have ‘Eye of the Tiger’ stuck in my head whenever the trail gets tough. It gives me a rhythm to keep moving, and a reminder that this trek is about resilience and pushing through.
What are you most excited about? I’m excited to take on the challenge, experience the incredible landscapes of the Larapinta, and share the journey with others who are passionate about supporting Jenny’s Place.
What will you miss most from home (beside family)? I’ll miss a proper cup of coffee and the comfort of my own bed… the trek will definitely make me appreciate the little things at home!
Thomas Pulleine
Why are you taking part in this trek? I’m taking part in this trek because the cause speaks deeply to my life story. I grew up as a child of domestic and family violence and later spent 17 years serving in the Army. Through both, I’ve seen how trauma shapes people — but also how connection, resilience, and support can change lives. This trek is my way of honouring that journey and raising awareness for others who are still finding their way through.
Are you a seasoned trekker or first-timer? What has training been like so far? While I’ve had my fair share of tough physical challenges in the Army, this trek is different — it’s not just about endurance, but about reflection and purpose. Training has been steady: long walks with a pack, building strength, and focusing on mindset. The hardest part is balancing preparation with daily commitments, but the cause keeps me grounded.
What do you hope this trek will accomplish? For me, I hope it’s a chance to push myself and find clarity — a reminder of how far I’ve come. For the cause, I want to help raise awareness and start conversations about domestic and family violence, especially its long-term impact on children and families, and the importance of early support.
What song, quote, or mantra is going to keep you going during tough moments on the hike? “I thought there’d be more snacks.”
What are you most excited about? Sharing the experience with others who are passionate about the cause, being out in nature, and that moment when we finish.
What will you miss most from home (beside family)? A proper coffee and my own bed.
Shamus Larsen
Why are you taking part in this trek? This trek was recommended to me by one of the teachers at my children’s school. Though I am fortunate enough to have very little personal exposure to domestic violence, I feel the need to assist any organisation not only support victims of domestic violence but stand up against perpetrators and set a good example for my children that any sort of violence against anyone should not be tolerant in our society.
Are you a seasoned trekker or first-timer? What has training been like so far? I have been involved in many hikes completing walks such as The Over Land Track, Six Foot Track, The Queen Charlotte Track (in New Zealand), and many other tracks in Europe. I have also been involved in alot of out door adventures. Leading up to the trek I have done a few 10-13km walks and have had very few issues. The physical side of the trek has very little concerns for me apart from dehydration but as this is the first trek I have done in which I am not carrying 20kg on my back leaves a lot of extra room for water. Mentally trekking is when I am at my best, I love the freedom of being on the trail.
What do you hope this trek will accomplish? I hope this trek can raise awareness that domestic violence of any kind, should not be tolerated and everyone should be discussing with Friends and family that it’s OK to stand against domestic violence.
What song, quote, or mantra is going to keep you going during tough moments on the hike? What always keeps me going on treks is the “what’s around the corner” what vista will I be greeted with next, what will this beautiful country deliver. Also, the exhilaration of completing the challenge is and getting to the final post.
What are you most excited about? I have never trekked in the Northern Territory and the times that I have visited this beautiful country have always left me with a desire to see more. Would also love to gain some more knowledge on the indigenous side of the trail and learn more of the history of the indigenous people that have inhabited the surrounding area.
What will you miss most from home (beside family)? Besides my family, I will miss nothing. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity and I hope to live in the moment from beginning to end. Life will be waiting for me all too quickly.
Anthony Fernandez
Why are you taking part in this trek? I’ve known and seen the amazing work of Jenny’s Place through working at Strategic Group – especially via Chris and Jill. As someone born and bred in Newy, I think it’s important to be able to support a cause which directly impacts the community I have grown up in.
Are you a seasoned trekker or first-timer? What has training been like so far? First time trekker though I am an avid runner. I am hopeful that this will hold me in good stead, however I think we’re a little blessed with Newcastle’s climate so this may be the toughest part of the challenge.
What do you hope this trek will accomplish? Aside from much-needed funds, hopefully awareness to the cause – being a community-based charity, I feel many amongst Newcastle aren’t aware just how many women AND children rely on Jenny’s Place (far too many).
What song, quote, or mantra is going to keep you going during tough moments on the hike? Not sure there is a song or quote that will keep me going – but I am sure being completely disconnected will give me plenty of time to reflect just how lucky I am to be in the position I’m in.
What are you most excited about? Being out in nature and being completely disconnected from the outside world.
What will you miss most from home (beside family)? Electric blanket…
Michael Sommers
Why are you taking part in this trek? I work for Strategic Group who are a Newcastle-based national MSP. Jenny’s Place has been one of our many not-for-profit clients that we supply IT support for. As well as Jenny’s Place being a client, I would like to do all I can to help bring more attention to this issue which is showing more and more an increasing trend in NSW and across Australia.
Are you a seasoned trekker or first-timer? What has training been like so far? I have hiked and camped on Mount Kosciuszko a few times. I generally go to the gym 3-4 times a week and run fairly often, so I feel in good shape.
What do you hope this trek will accomplish? I hope I can raise money and bring attention to the fantastic work in domestic violence that Jenny’s Place does, we need to spread the word. For myself, I am hoping I can use this time to do a bit of a reset, meet you people and see a remote part of the country.
What song, quote, or mantra is going to keep you going during tough moments on the hike? I saw a good one just the other day!
“Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth.” – Muhammad Ali
What are you most excited about? Seeing a remote part of Australia and meeting my fellow trekkers.
What will you miss most from home (beside family)? Ask me when I get back!
Benjamin Wheatcroft
Why are you taking part in this trek? Taking part as the opportunity came up at work, who have partnered with Jenny’s Place and their work seems to be make a meaningful impact to a local community priority issue.
Are you a seasoned trekker or first-timer? What has training been like so far? Do quite a bit of hiking. Recently been to Central Asia where I did some pretty big hikes so feeling prepared.
What do you hope this trek will accomplish? Hope the fundraising will provide funds for Jenny’s Place to continue making a difference.
What are you most excited about? Excited for the views and to learn about the local Indigenous culture.
What will you miss most from home (beside family)? Nutrigrain.
Hugh McCormack
Why are you taking part in this trek? A friend has been on previous treks for Jenny’s Place. She said it was a rewarding experience. Plus it is an opportunity to stand up and say that men too have a part to play in raising awareness for domestic violence.
Are you a seasoned trekker or first-timer? What has training been like so far? I’m not a seasoned hiker. I have an active job, regularly participate in Park Run and cycle to work so not worried about my overall fitness. It will be a challenge walking consistently for several days.
What do you hope this trek will accomplish? I’m looking forward to the sense of achievement on completion of the trek. It has been rewarding seeing the level of support from friends and colleagues in raising awareness of Jenny’s Place.
What song, quote, or mantra is going to keep you going during tough moments on the hike? On my longer mountain bike events the one thing that kept popping into my head was paraphrasing Dory from Finding Nemo. “Just keep spinning” to keep the pedals moving. Just keep putting one foot in front of the other knowing there is an end goal.
What are you most excited about? Getting into the outback and away from electronic devices.
What will you miss most from home (beside family)? The creature comforts. Hot showers, warm comfy bed.
Shaun Hicks
Why are you taking part in this trek? I enjoy walking and the outdoors, and at the same time I get to create some awareness about an important issue within our community.
Are you a seasoned trekker or first-timer? What has training been like so far? I have completed some parts of the Great North Walk. I have never been on any formal trek. I enjoy bushwalking with the family. Been doing some weekly walks for training which I’ve been enjoying.
What do you hope this trek will accomplish? To highlight the fact that men need to stand up against domestic violence in our community.
What are you most excited about? The scenery, fresh air, exercise and time off work.
What will you miss most from home (beside family)? Apart from the family and pets, probably the PlayStation and lounge.
Will Walters
Why are you taking part in this trek? I decided to take part in this trek originally as a “help where you can” sorta vibe. But after becoming involved with the lovely ladies at Jenny’s Place, I quickly realised, that still today there is an eye-opening amount of women and children still in unsafe/ damaging environments. That hit me harder than leg day, and it locked in my reason for doing this trek.
Are you a seasoned trekker or first-timer? What has training been like so far? First-time trekker here. Targeted training? Non-existent. But my work and lifestyle are very active, and I’m in the gym almost every day, so I’m counting that as ‘preparation.’ Mentally, I’m ready. Physically, we’ll find out on day one.
What do you hope this trek will accomplish? For me, I’m chasing the memories and the challenge. For the cause, I want this trek to spark more awareness, more conversations, and more support for those who need it most.
What song, quote, or mantra is going to keep you going during tough moments on the hike? I could write a lengthy list here. My playlist alone would be enough for anyone.
What are you most excited about? Definitely the experience with the group as a whole but also just seeing where you live and what’s out there.
What will you miss most from home (beside family)? Honestly. Probably the gym and GYG, in that order.
Daniel Trifogli
Why are you taking part in this trek? Is there a personal story or experience that makes this cause meaningful to you? I was raised by a single mother and a sister. I know how strong and independent women can be, but I’ve also seen how fragile they can be.
Are you a seasoned trekker or first-timer? What has training been like so far? I’ve completed a few 100km runs for different charity groups in the past. I haven’t had a chance to get too much training in but I’m fairly active in my day-to-day life.
What do you hope this trek will accomplish? Awareness and acknowledgment of these issues.
What are you most excited about? The experience.
What will you miss most from home (beside family)? KFC and a hot shower.
Travis Howard
Why are you taking part in this trek? I’m taking part in the trek because I want to help be a part of change. I was also inspired by my aunty who did a trek last year.
Are you a seasoned trekker or first-timer? What has training been like so far? I’m a first-time trekker. My physical training hasn’t gone great as I’m still recovering from an ankle injury. Although mentally I feel strong and am looking forward to the trek.
What do you hope this trek will accomplish? I hope the trek can raise even more awareness, and encourage men to feel more comfortable to be a part of change.
What song, quote, or mantra is going to keep you going during tough moments on the hike? There’s a couple of quotes I like “it only seems impossible until it’s done” and “just go one more”.
What are you most excited about? I’m excited for the challenge and to explore somewhere I haven’t been before.
What will you miss most from home (beside family)? What I’ll miss the most about home would have to be my day-to-day routine.
Together, we can create change
A heartfelt thank you to our incredible trekkers, generous sponsors, and devoted supporters for making this journey possible. Your determination, kindness, and solidarity are helping to shine a light on domestic violence and the essential work of Jenny’s Place. Together, you are creating real change for women and children in our community.
But the journey doesn’t end here. Your support is still needed! By donating to Jenny’s Place, you can help ensure that vital services and safe refuge remain available for those who need it most. Stand with the Champions for Change and be part of a community united against domestic and family violence.
