By Yvette Peverell
This October, mother-and-daughter trio, Tiana, Erin and Aleisha Weidmann, will take on Coastrek Margaret River - a 20-kilometre hiking challenge along one of Australia’s most stunning coastal trails in support of Beyond Blue.
For the Weidmann women, this isn’t just a hike - it’s a deeply personal mission to shine a light on mental health and raise vital funds for those who need it most.
Erin’s Story
Mental health has significantly impacted Erin’s life for over a decade, and she knows firsthand how life-changing the right support can be during difficult times. Sadly, many people still face barriers when reaching out for help - something Erin hopes to change by raising funds through her Coastrek hiking challenge for Beyond Blue’s 24/7 Support Service.
Erin was first formally diagnosed with mental health challenges at the age of 13. The journey to getting help, she says, was far from straightforward.
“It was quite hard to get the right help. Private help is very expensive, and both public and private systems have huge wait lists. Often, I was labelled as ‘too complex’ and turned away from services.”
As a young teen, Erin found it incredibly difficult to speak up about what she was going through.
“I was so young, and mental health wasn’t seriously talked about. I didn’t even know what to say or who to tell. Things got really bad before I told anyone how much I was struggling, and by then it was a lot harder to manage. If mental health was less stigmatised and there was more open communication for young people – and if support was more accessible – maybe I could’ve found help sooner and prevented things getting as bad as they did.”
Her mental health challenges affected many aspects of life, including school and social connections.
“I missed a lot of school and had many hospital admissions to medical and psych wards from ages 16 to 22. It made it really hard to keep up with schoolwork and maintain friendships.”
Now 24, and having recently become a mother, Erin sees this trek as the perfect opportunity to refocus on her own wellbeing:
“After recently welcoming my beautiful son into the world, it feels like the perfect opportunity to focus on my own health and wellbeing. Becoming a parent has given me a new perspective and motivation to take care of myself, both physically and mentally.
Starting this training journey is not only a great way to get active again, but also a chance to set a positive example and support a cause that means a lot to me.”
When asked what advice she would give to other young girls struggling with mental health, Erin offers this:
“Hang in there. Almost half my life has been deeply affected by mental illness, and there were many times I wanted to and tried to give up. But today, I’m in control of my mental health – it no longer controls me. I’m a qualified nurse, I have a wonderful partner, and I’m a proud mum to the most beautiful little boy.
If you had told me two years ago that this would be my life now, I wouldn’t have believed you. But it’s proof that things can change. If someone isn’t listening to you, find someone who will. If one type of therapy isn’t helping, try another. Keep searching, keep speaking up, and above all – never stop fighting for yourself. You are so worth it.
Impact on Family and Friends
Tiana is proud to take on Coastrek with her daughters, whom she calls her “strong, talented, warrior women.”
“As a mother of a daughter who’s faced serious mental health challenges for over a decade, I’ve seen the toll it takes - on individuals, and on the families who walk beside them. So many times I felt helpless when I couldn’t get Erin the help she needed. The fight for support has been long and exhausting.”
Tiana hopes their efforts will raise funds and awareness, ensuring others can access the support they need — both those struggling and those caring for them.
“I credit Erin’s bravery, determination, and strength for where she is today - a kind, caring daughter, a qualified nurse, and a beautiful mum.
“My eldest daughter, Aleisha, has overcome huge challenges too. She’s been a single mum for most of her daughter’s life and faced the tough early days of motherhood when she was living in Melbourne during Covid lockdowns, without much family nearby. She completed her PGA professional golf studies while raising her daughter and is now a strong advocate for women and children in golf.”
“I’m so proud of both my girls and feel lucky to have them.”
Why They Hike
The statistics paint a powerful picture:
- In Australia, around 5 million people are living with anxiety or depression, and nearly half will experience a mental health condition in our lifetime.
- 1 in 3 women in Australia will experience anxiety in their lifetime, and 1 in 5 will experience depression.
- Almost half of young women aged 16 to 24 are living with a mental health condition.
- Half of all mental health conditions begin by age 14.
These numbers are more than data points - they represent real people, real families, and real stories like Erin, and the Weidmann family.
Benefits of Exercising in Nature and Social Connection
The trio has been following Coastrek’s 12-week training program, spending time on trails around Perth and building healthy routines - something Coastrek prides itself on. Founder Di Westaway OAM explains:
“Coastrek is all about connection - with friends, family, nature, and community. Preparing together for the hike helps build positive habits and supports lasting mental wellbeing. This kind of regular outdoor activity is powerful, and the benefits extend well beyond event day.”
Support the Weidmann Women
To support Erin, Tiana and Aleisha and help raise funds for the Beyond Blue 24/7 Support Service you can donate to their team here: https://www.coastrek.com.au/fundraisers/WalknowWinelater16418
Or sign up to one of Coastrek’s hiking challenges around Australia: www.coastrek.com.au
Every step you take with Coastrek can make a real impact on your own mental health and wellbeing and will help ensure support is there when needed – for yourself, for those you love, and everyone in Australia.
