Outdoors October Virtual Hike Challenge Prize Draw
This October, 356 participants took part in the Outdoors October Virtual Hike Challenge, logging an impressive 63,000+ kilometers—over 1.5 times the Earth’s circumference! This initiative, hosted by the Bibbulmun Track Foundation in collaboration with Outdoors WA, encouraged participants to focus on their physical and mental health by virtually “hiking” the amazing 1,000-kilometer Bibbulmun Track, renowned for its spectacular and diverse landscapes from Kalamunda to Albany
Participants came from varied backgrounds, ranging from marathon trainees to recreational hikers, fitness enthusiasts, and even fundraisers. Participant Tash Hanham joined “for the pure joy of being outdoors,” using the challenge as a motivation to incorporate more physical activity into daily life.
Tara, another participant, shared her team’s journey: “We were lucky to have some members training for ultramarathons. It gave us all a healthy sense of competition and kept us balanced during work and exams.”
The challenge extended well beyond Australia. Miles and his team hiked sections of Turkey’s Lycian Way while training for marathons in Vietnam, bringing the spirit of the Bibbulmun Track with them across continents. He fondly shared, “Carolyn even placed a Bibbulmun Track sticker at the Peak of the Balkans trail in Europe.”
The Bibbulmun Track Foundation hopes participants will carry the spirit of Outdoors October forward. Lachlan, a teacher from Victoria, remarked on how his team used the challenge to stay active during school holidays. “Some members of our team are already looking for the next challenge,” he said, capturing the enthusiasm shared by many participants.
This year’s Outdoors October Challenge inspired both an appreciation for the Bibbulmun Track and the profound benefits of spending time in nature. Hannah from ”Team West Swan BFB” shared that they chose to participate in this challenge in particular to raise awareness and fundraise for mental health. “Whether it be through intensive training for an upcoming Ironman or just going for a fish with mates, all members participated and contributed to the team’s success”, she said. John from “Team Tight Nuts and Sweaty Butts” summed it up best: “If we can raise money for a worthwhile cause and have fun, even better!”
2024 Prize winners!
Ultimate Track Titans Award 🏆 | Team: 2 Pints 1 Parmi
Congratulations, Team 2 Pints 1 Parmi! 🥳 Your team has been drawn as the winner of the Ultimate Track Titans Award for completing the entire 1000km Bibbulmun Track by the end of the Outdoors October Virtual Hike Challenge! As the Ultimate Track Titans, you’ll each receive a $50 Anaconda voucher, a $100 Sea to Summit voucher, and a surprise prize pack from Paddy Pallin—the ultimate prize for your incredible achievement!
Team Trail Blazers Award 🔥 | Team: Bib-Ventures Unleashed
Bravo, Team Bib-Ventures Unleashed! 🌲 Your team has been drawn as the winner of the Trail Blazers Award for completing more than 500km of the Bibbulmun Track during the Outdoors October Virtual Hike Challenge! This outstanding effort means each team member will receive 3 Small Things Wine cans to celebrate your teamwork and dedication.
Distance Dynamos Award 🏃 | Team: LG
Hats off to Team LG! 🎉 Your team has been drawn as the winner of the Distance Dynamos Award for completing more than 250km of the Bibbulmun Track during the Outdoors October Virtual Hike Challenge! Each team member will receive a Bibbulmun Track Foundation water bottle—a perfect companion for future adventures!
Trail Conqueror Award 🌄 | Winner: brooker05 (Team Anaconda Busselton)
Congratulations, brooker05! 🥳 You’ve been drawn as the winner of the Trail Conqueror Award for completing an more than 100km in the Outdoors October Virtual Hike Challenge. Your dedication to the trail has earned you a beautifully designed Bibbulmun Track tea towel by Alex Hotchin, featuring the unique flora and fauna of the Track—a true keepsake to celebrate your accomplishment.
Endurance Explorer Award 🌟 | Winner: Mikaela (Team Blisters in the Sun)
Bravo, Mikaela! 🎉 You’ve been drawn as the winner of the Endurance Explorer Award for completing an more than 250km in the Outdoors October Virtual Hike Challenge. Your hard work and perseverance have earned you a $100 Bibbulmun Track Foundation voucher—redeemable for BTF events in 2025. We hope this prize helps fuel even more outdoor adventures!
Ultimate Adventurer Award 🥇 | Winner: Rod (Team Scenic Striders)
Congratulations, Rod! 🌟 You’ve been drawn as the winner of the Ultimate Adventurer Award for completing an more than 500km during the Outdoors October Virtual Hike Challenge! Your remarkable achievement has earned you one of three exclusive Paddy Pallin prize packs, featuring a Salomon hydration pack and a pair of trail runners, generously donated by Salomon. A fitting reward for your outstanding dedication!
Thankyou to our Sponsors who donated such amazing prizes for our lucky winning participants!
The Bibbulmun Track Foundation invites everyone to continue exploring and supporting the Bibbulmun Track, whether virtually or in person. For more information on upcoming events and ways to get involved, visit the Bibbulmun TrackFoundation homepage.
