WOMEN on a three-day walk from Frankston to Cape Schanck earlier this month aimed to “inspire and empower those experiencing disadvantage and transform their lives through fitness, health and wellbeing activities”.
The Women’s Spirit Walk – the Frank to Schanck Challenge – set off from Frankston pier on Friday 30 April with about 70 women and some men on a mission to reach Cape Schanck lighthouse by Sunday afternoon, 2 May.
Founder and managing director of Women’s Spirit Project Jodie Belyea said one-in-four women experienced mental health issues, family violence and/or social isolation. “Fitness, health and wellbeing are crucial to living a balanced, purposeful and passionate life, however, opportunities to participate in these activities are not financially accessible to all women – many in the Frankston and Mornington Peninsula areas,” she said.
The project provides access to free activities that support women to get connected and participate in these activities in person and virtually.
In the lead-up, women took part in online discussions on mental preparation, fitness, nutrition and equipment. Training walks gradually increased in distance and difficulty.
From Frankston the women walked to Mount Eliza and then to The Briars at Mount Martha. On the Saturday they were due to descend to Safety Beach before heading up Arthurs Seat. On Sunday they planned to walk from Rosebud to Cape Schanck.
On the Saturday evening a function was due to be held attended by Dunkley MP Peta Murphy, Frankston MP Paul Edbrooke, Yan Yean MP Danielle Green, Nepean MP Chris Brayne, Frankston City’s Cr Claire Harvey, Women’s Health South East CEO Kit McMahon, Family Life CEO Allison Wainwright and “Extraordinary Adventurer” Cath Wallis.
Ms Belyea said: “After training and talking with a range of women these past few weeks there are some really inspiring stories: women recovering from cancer, caring for loved ones who are ill, socially isolated, or recovering from family violence.
“This event and the work leading up to it helps build connection, confidence and essential life skills, inspiring and supporting women to transform their lives.”
