Ben L’Estrange, Director of RTL Trades, is taking on the 2026 Youngcare 10 Peaks Challenge (27–31 May 2026) — hiking 60kms across the top 10 peaks of Kosciuszko National Park to raise vital funds and awareness

“I’ve always believed that if you’re in a position to make a difference, you have a responsibility to step up. At RTL Trades, we’ve quietly supported Youngcare — attending events, backing initiatives, standing behind their mission. But this challenge feels different. It’s time to go further. Time to put myself on the line physically and mentally, and lead from the front in a way that reflects how deeply we believe in what Youngcare stands for.

Every day through our work in building, roofing, plumbing and electrical, we step into hospitals, aged care and people’s homes. We see how much dignity and independence is tied to having a safe, functional, accessible space. For most of us, where we live is something we take for granted. But for thousands of young Australians with complex physical disabilities, that choice simply doesn’t exist. Too many are living in aged care facilities, hospitals, or homes that don’t meet their needs — not because they want to, but because there is nowhere else. Youngcare is fighting to change that — creating Specialist Disability Accommodation, providing grants, and guiding families through an incredibly complex system.

The statistics are confronting. 5.5 million Australians live with disability, and adults with severe or profound disability are 12 times more likely to experience very high psychological distress .

Behind those numbers are young people who deserve the same freedom, dignity and choice that we all expect in our own lives. As a father, as a business owner, and as someone who works in an industry that quite literally builds spaces for people to live, I can’t ignore that.

The 10 Peaks Challenge will take me out of my comfort zone — freezing temperatures, steep climbs, 60kms across rugged terrain. But that discomfort is temporary. For many young people living in inappropriate housing, the struggle is constant. If pushing myself physically can help raise $20,000 or more to support housing, grants and Youngcare Connect, then every step is worth it.

This is not just my challenge — it’s RTL Trades’ commitment to increasing our involvement and standing publicly behind a cause that aligns with our core values: community, dignity, and practical action. We don’t just want to support from the sidelines anymore. We want to be part of the solution. Because freedom, choice and dignity shouldn’t be a luxury — they should be a given for every young Australian.