Jodie Beaton

Monday Miles at Bunyaville

Spent the long weekend putting some extra training miles into my legs exploring Bunyaville Conservation Park. It’s so wonderful to have so many trails so close to home. Yet to see a koala along the magnificent eucalyptus trails, but it’s early days! 

Mt Cootha - The Powerful Owl

Another ~10km in the legs for the Youngcare Challenge! 👟

Today’s River City Loop started at Kangaroo Point with those steep stairs to get the legs working early, then across the Goodwill Bridge and through the City Botanic Gardens, on to Howard Smith Wharves, across the Story Bridge and finishing with a very well-earned refreshment at Joey’s. ☀️🥂

A big thanks to my great friend Claire for being my walking buddy — time really does fly when you have great company!

It may have been a smaller walk, but I’m reminding myself that every step counts. Every kilometre is building endurance, stamina and resilience for the bigger challenge ahead.

One walk, one kilometre, one step at a time. 

Banks Street Reserve

Desert prep is officially underway!

Clocked some training miles at Banks Street Reserve today as I get ready for the Munga-Thirri Simpson Desert Challenge. A beautiful space to enjoy bushland, native wildlife … and so close to the city! 

Araucaria Track

Training kms = steps closer to the desert.

Today's training took me through the Araucaria Track at Enoggera Reservoir — a beautiful reminder that training doesn't always have to feel like training.  Fresh air, plenty of hills, and a few turtles along the way basking in the sun. 

Every step is helping prepare me for the 230km Munga-Thirri Simpson Desert Challenge in 2027, as I take on this challenge to raise $40,000 for Youngcare.

Donating and following my Munga-Thirri Simpson Desert Challenge

As I prepare for this incredible challenge, I'd love for you to come along for the journey. I'll be sharing training updates, fundraising milestones, behind-the-scenes preparation, and plenty of moments from the desert adventure itself on Instagram at @desert_challenge_2027.

Participation in the Munga-Thirri Simpson Desert Challenge requires each participant to raise a minimum of $40,000 for Youngcare. While reaching this target is certainly a significant undertaking, it reflects the life-changing impact these funds have on young Australians living with physical and complex disabilities. Every donation, share, introduction, and conversation helps raise awareness and brings me one step closer to that goal.

I'm also grateful for the support of businesses and community organisations that choose to partner with the challenge. Whether through sponsorship, fundraising initiatives, workplace giving, or simply helping spread the word, business support can make a meaningful contribution to my fundraising effort and Youngcare's important work.