Birdsville trek to benefit kids

On track: Checking their route from Casino to Birdsville for their Trek Quest 4X4 fundraiser are (from left) organiser Peter Arthur, Vicki Parmenter and Warren and Janelle Walker.

Cathy Adams

TWO essential items for the Trek Quest Outback 4x4 Adventure trip, which is set to depart on September 25, are a good sense of humour and a camera, according to Peter Arthur.

Mr Arthur, from McKees Hill, is the founder of Trek Quest and has been preparing for the third annual Outback adventure for almost a year.

“Organising a trip for over 50 people is a lot of work, but everyone enjoys it and it is definitely worth the effort,” he said.

Mr Arthur said the adventure trek would allow 4WD owners to experience the harsh and beautiful Outback while donating money to a good cause.

“All the money raised from the trip will go to the Our Kids Northern Rivers Children Health Fund,” he said.

“We are aiming to raise $20,000 from donations, entry fees and an auction we are doing when we return.

“Our Kids is a great foundation and they really need the money, so we may as well fundraise and have a lot a fun while doing it.”

Mr Arthur said the week-long trip, which starts at Casino and ends in Birdsville, was family-oriented and provided entertainment for everyone.

“My wife and I have made up 600 questions for teams to answer as we drive along. We’ll cook breakfast together every morning, have team games at night and, of course, there will be plenty of beers,” he said.

Warren Walker, of Lismore, is going on his first trek and does not know what to expect.

“It will be a surprise to find out what it’s like. There will be plenty of beers, antics and stories being shared,” he said.

If you are interested in joining the trek, or donating to Our Kids, visit www.trekquest.org.au.