Four local women are participating in this year’s Brisbane Coastrek to raise funds for Beyond Blue in July.
Brisbane Coastrek aims to promote awareness, understanding, and remove the stigma associated with mental health issues while raising money.
Tanya Verri is one of the women participating and she said after the loss of her friend’s son Zack, their youngest team member Emma encouraged the group to enter.
“Our team name is ‘Zack Lockes Flock’ to honour his memory,“ Tanya said.
“We will also be walking in memory of well-known local journalist Jeremy Sollars.“
The team also comprises of Zack’s Mum Colette and Majella Roche.
Tanya said that although they entered the event with the aims of raising funds and awareness for mental health, the personal rewards have been unexpectedly immense.
“Fundraising in the community has opened up conversations, giving us and others a feeling of a sense of support, understanding and connectivity,“ she said.
“Participation has provided a positive outlet for not only our grief, but that of many others, and has brought friends and family together.“
Tanya said the group have been hosting various fundraising events over the past few months since the team was registered in mid-February.
“We have hosted a family movie night at Warwick Twin Cinemas, had a stall at both the Warwick Celtic Festival and Warwick Easter markets (with all proceeds going to Beyond Blue), and had an artisan workshop facilitated by talented local artist Lynn-Marie Cremasco,“ she said.
“All of our events have seen overwhelming support in terms of attendance and donations, of goods, services, time and physical help from many beautiful people and generous businesses.“
Moreover, Tanya said that while they were initially daunted by the prospect of raising $2000 for Beyond Blue, the team has far exceeded that and decided to raise $15,000.
“In May, we are hosting what promises to be our two biggest fundraising events – Cocktail Night at the Warwick Hotel on 14 May and the Faulty Towers Interactive Dining Experience on 20 May at the Hawker Road Function Centre (Golf Club),“ she said.
“Tickets are limited to 120 guests and are great value at $85 per person for a three course meal, a two hour immersive theatre-style show, and some fantastic prizes.
“The night provides the perfect opportunity for interested persons to get together with friends, family or your work group and have an amazing night out.“
Tanya said that ticket sales and enquires can be directed to Colette Locke on 0450 420184 or colette.steve@gmail.com.
“Tickets can also be purchased through the Hawker Road Function Centre/Warwick Golf Club,“ she said.
“Members of the community who may wish to help our team in supporting Beyond Blue but are unable to attend any of our events can make a donation through the following link:
www.coastrek.com.au/fundraisers/ZackLockesFlock.“
