Desert trek to test limits and raise funds

Geraldton woman Amanda Burges wants to donate $3000 to a charity that gives tents to the homeless and she’s thought of a way to raise funds, as well as to push her body to the limit.

The Geraldton Grammar School teacher will walk just over a quarter of the Larapinta Trail, a 223km desert stretch near Alice Springs.

Her 60km trek will span five days in mid-August, when winter temperatures regularly fall to 10C and below.

Ms Burges spent time in hospital two years ago to correct issues with her feet, and the long walk will be her first endurance test since her surgery.

“Having had bilateral foot surgery a little over two years ago, this trek is not only a way to support an amazing charity but will also be a test of my physical and mental strength to be able to do an activity I have not been able to do in over 20 years,” she said.

Ms Burges is walking to support ShelterBox, a disaster relief charity that provides tents and emergency aid items like cooking sets and solar lights to people displaced by natural disaster or war. Ms Burges has previously pushed support for the organisation in school, where her students raised about $1000 in 2017 and $750 last year to buy tents for families in need of shelter.

This year, Ms Burges’ fundraising efforts will include a movie night at Orana Cinemas Geraldton.

Tickets to see American blockbuster Captain Marvel will cost $25 for general admission.

The fundraiser viewing starts at 6pm on Thursday, March 28.

For ticket information, phone Ms Burges on 0448 897 075.