headspace Beaudesert rallies the supports push for better mental health 

Shane Hayward and Tanya Townend did The Push Up Challenge in 2023. Photo by Keer Moriarty.
Shane Hayward and Tanya Townend did The Push Up Challenge in 2023. Photo by Keer Moriarty.

3,249 push-ups in 24 days: are you up for the challenge, Beaudesert?

This June, headspace Beaudesert is encouraging Scenic Rim locals to push for better mental health by participating in Australia’s largest mental health and fitness event, The Push-Up Challenge. Participants will take on 3,249 push-ups across 24 days in June, putting the spotlight on the tragic number of lives lost to suicide in Australia in 2022.

Thousands of Australians across all ages and walks of life participate in the event which engages people in mental health through connection, physical activity and education. 

headspace Beaudesert spokesperson Luke Walsh said the Push-Up Challenge is a great opportunity for Australians to talk about their mental health, learn how to best support each other and recognise when they might need to put their own hand up for help.

“We know The Push-Up Challenge is going to be a lot of fun and we’re looking forward to connecting with our local community throughout June,” he said.

“headspace is proud to be trusted by young people and their families in Beaudesert and the Scenic Rim, and the funds raised through The Push-Up Challenge will help us continue to support their mental health and wellbeing,” commented Luke. 

From June 5 to 28 , participants of all ages and abilities will do push-ups while learning about mental health, with the number of daily push-ups changing to reflect a vital mental health fact. 

And if completing 3,249 push-ups feels out of reach, participants can set their own push-up goal, which can also be done as sit-ups, squats or tailored exercises, with progress tracked through a dedicated app. 

headspace Beaudesert is encouraging people of all ages, local businesses, gyms, clubs and schools in the area to join Team headspace Beaudesert. 

“By raising funds for headspace Beaudesert you will be supporting young people in our community to lead mentally healthy and fulfilling lives. Donations to our centre directly support the young people we serve by enhancing our group programs, centre resources and youth-led initiatives.”

“We recognise the diverse needs of our Beaudesert community and aim to use these funds to expand our support resources, reduce stigma, and assist vulnerable young people,” said Luke. 

The Push-Up Challenge is a free event, and you can register as an individual, a team, or get your whole workplace, club, gym or school involved at https://www.thepushupchallenge.com.au/beneficiary/headspace-Beaudesert

Young people aged 12 to 25, as well as their family and friends, can visit headspace Beaudesert for support. Help is also available via phone and online counselling service eheadspace seven days a week between 9am–1am (AEST). The number is 1800 650 890. 

If you’re looking for someone to talk to immediately, Lifeline (13 11 14) and Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800) are available to talk 24/7. 

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About Keer Moriarty 507 Articles
Small town newspaper Editor, journo, social media manager and tea lady.