GOOLUM News We are a primary health and wellbeing organisation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people operating on the traditional lands of the Wotjobaluk, Jaadwa, Jadawadjali, Wergaia and Jupagulk peoples. We strive to provide a holistic model that responds to the physical, social emotional, Cultural and spiritual need of our people.
December, 20232023 October,
Bravery and persistent pushes Charmaine past the finish line
I
n a remarkable feat of determination and togetherness, Charmaine Lockwood, a 15-year-old
Aboriginal teenager from Stawell Secondary College, successfully completed the Great Victorian Bike Ride, a non-competitive, fully supported cycling event covering 600 kilometers from Orbost to Wonthaggi in Victoria, Australia. Charmaine spoke enthusiastically about the challenge, highlighting its inclusive nature, "Great Victorian Bike Ride – A Challenge that anybody can do. It’s supposed to challenge yourself on how long you can stay on a bike for." Undoubtedly a daunting undertaking, Charmaine and her schoolmates, a group of 10 students and 4 adults, pedaled for an average of 7-8 hours a day, facing unpredictable weather conditions and challenging terrains. Despite bad weather, the riders persisted, demonstrating resilience and a commitment to the journey. Reflecting on the immense scale of the ride, Charmaine confessed to the emotional toll of
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