For Kate, the cause was close to her heart. Coastrek wasn't just a hike; it was a way to support mental health in Australia and honour those who've struggled. Kate had grown up in regional Australia and knows first-hand how tough it’s been for her community particularly during the current drought conditions and the toll that it takes on their mental health. “I felt that if I could contribute in a small way by raising funds and walking for good that I’d be able to help them in these difficult times.”
What made Kate’s fundraising journey so successful? She kept it real, and she shared it.
Using just Instagram and Facebook, Kate posted regular updates about her training, her fundraising progress, and her personal motivation. Her stories were raw, honest, and full of heart. And they resonated. Friends from all over, some she hadn’t spoken to in years, reached out with donations and words of encouragement.
“It gave me a reason to reconnect. I reignited conversations with people I’d lost touch with, and that became one of the most fulfilling parts of the experience.”
Kate also used her Coastrek dashboard to stay connected with supporters. She posted weekly updates, thanked every donor personally, and even asked for podcast recommendations to keep her motivated during long training walks.
“I work in marketing, so I value communication. It was a positive way of remaining engaged, keeping in touch, but also indirectly kept myself accountable ‘oh gosh I’m really doing this’ and I couldn’t back down! It became addictive and I loved hearing back from followers and their comments that helped me remain motivated. I felt their support during my training and especially on the day.”
Her health community—physio, podiatrist, dentist, yoga teachers—also rallied behind her. Coastrek became a talking point, and her commitment inspired others to get involved or simply cheer her on.
Looking back, Kate believes her success came down to being authentic.
“It was real, personable, fun and raw. I didn’t try to be perfect—I just shared my journey.”
Her advice for future Coastrekkers?
Just start! That’s the hardest part. Once I made my first story, the donations and words of encouragement flowed in. Then you have a sense of accountability and pride, having received over 50 individual donations is something I could have never scripted! I thought I’d be paying the minimum donation myself and gained such a sense of warmth and encouragement from the donations, and I knew I just had to do my very best for my supporters, myself and Beyond Blue.
Kate’s journey didn’t end at the finish line. She’s kept up her walking habit and was amazed to discover she’s walked over 4,000km this year alone.
“I’m hooked. Coastrek gave me purpose, connection, and a reason to keep moving.”
Learn more about fundraising for Coastrek here.
