MORE than 80 women trekked 60 kilometres from Frankston to the Cape Schanck lighthouse for the Women’s Spirit Project’s annual Frank2Schanck walk.
Over three days (18-20 November) the group walked the length of the peninsula in all weather conditions – rain, shine, flood and mud – as part of a mission to help women transform their lives through accessible fitness, health and wellbeing activities.
For many, the weekend’s walk was a life-changing event, said program manager Jodie Belyea.
“So many women achieved personal bests after months of training having never attempted such an adventure,” Belyea said.
As part of the walk, the Women’s Spirit Project launched a new 2023 Spirit of Transformation Program that will run from March to June.
Belyea said the program was designed for women aged 25 years or older who had experienced life challenges including, but not limited to, isolation and loneliness, domestic and family violence, addiction, mental health barriers, poverty and under employment.
“Women on a recovery journey are invited to apply to start the next chapter in their life,” she said.
Participants will be coached by a team of female mentors with volunteers acting as role models and guides.
“Our mentors actively participate in all elements of the program. They bring a commitment to fitness, health and wellbeing; a good listening ear and motivate program participants on their journey,” Belyea said.
Mentors will participate in a two-day mentoring course delivered by qualified practitioners covering education, fitness, health, nutrition, wellbeing and adult learning.
Applications are open for participants and volunteer mentors at womensspiritproject.org/spirit-of-transformation-2023
The group has plans next year for short and longer distance walks. Follow on Facebook.com/TheWomensSpiritProject
First published in the Southern Peninsula News – 29 November 2022
