How do I fundraise?

Never fundraised before? Not sure where to start? No worries, we don’t expect you to do it alone. You will have regular support from the Inspired Adventures fundraising team, who will help you make a fundraising plan to meet your target. Alongside personalised coaching, we will also send you lots of ideas and resources on how to fundraise. From online fundraising to trivia nights, to bake sales and out-of-the-box ideas, we have years and years of tried and tested tips to make your fundraising a success.

What happens if I don’t meet my fundraising target? 

It’s normal to worry you won’t meet your fundraising target, but we know you can do it. In fact, with the support of Inspired Adventures, almost everyone goes on to raise far more than they imagined. 

By registering for the adventure, you agree to raise the minimum fundraising amount specified. Like you, we are looking to make a significant impact for our charity partners, so the goal is for each person to have met their fundraising target before departure. If you fail to raise the minimum fundraising target by this time, we will review the situation on a case-by-case basis.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we fundraise together? 

Absolutely! Fundraising with a friend is a great idea. Just remember the fundraising target is per person, so you will each need to meet the minimum fundraising goal to participate. We know you can do it. If you are accompanied by a support person, both of you will have an individual and team fundraising page. While the support person is not required to raise the $3,500 themselves, they are expected to assist you with your fundraising activities to help achieve your fundraising goal. Additionally, the support person is welcome to raise funds independently if they wish to help support people who are blind or have low vision.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

The funds raised for Vision Australia are tax-deductible (conditions apply).

How do I train for this adventure? 

We will provide you with information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. In addition, we recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.

As part of your training, we recommend making use of your free time to complete several day hikes. You should aim to be able to walk in hilly terrain for 5+ hours comfortably and get up and do it again the next day.

It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek.

Is this trek accessible?

Yes. This is a completely accessible trek where you are invited to register with a support person, bring a Seeing Eye Dog, or register with a friend or family member to act as a guide if you are blind or have low vision. You may have the option of sourcing NDIS funding to request some of your core funds to be allocated to assist with a support person accompanying you in a working capacity on the trek. Please make inquiries with your NDIS fund contact if this is an option for you, or if you would like to discuss this further please contact Myra Woodley, myra.woodley@visionaustralia.org

How challenging is this adventure?

This adventure is ranked a moderate 3/5. While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are physically fit and willing to train. The Abel Tasman trek is a physical challenge, involving trekking approximately 53 kilometres over 3 days. The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience. 

You will be well supported on the adventure, with the guides and your team all cheering you on. You are free to move at your own pace and we will take frequent breaks. All participants are required to complete a medical form, signed by a GP, before taking part in this adventure. There will also be a doctor accompanying the trek. 

How many people will be on my adventure? 

We believe small group travel is better for the planet, and better for you. Our adventures average between 10 - 24 participants, connected by their commitment to the greater good.

Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?

Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road. For those people who are blind or low vision and are eligible for NDIS funding, it may be possible to allocate some of the core funds to bring a support person working as a sighted guide for support on the trek (trip cost applies). You can also bring your Seeing Eye Dog, please check with your Seeing Eye Dog contact about your dogs suitability and training before registering. 

What is the general age range of participants?

The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. If they are under 18, they would need to be accompanied by a parent or a guardian. We have had participants aged 16–84+ take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.

I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for? 

Of course, we will happily arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. Please advise your local guide on Day 1 as well. You will be fed very well while you’re on the adventure, but if you have a very specific dietary requirement or severe allergies, often it’s best to pack some extra things as back-up.

Who is Inspired Adventures?

Vision Australia has partnered with Inspired Adventures to bring you this adventure of a lifetime. Over the last 19 years, Inspired Adventures has taken over 8,000 people, just like you, on adventures all around the world, raising over $48 million for important causes. When you choose to travel with Inspired Adventures and Vision Australia, you can be confident you’re in the best hands.

What is the accommodation like? 

Accommodation on this adventure is in lodges based on twin-share. You will stay at Meadowbank Homestead in Awaroa for the first two nights, and Torrent Bay Lodge for the second two nights.

Will I be sharing accommodation?

Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share. You will be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. There are a limited number of single supplements available which cost an additional $500.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?

Absolutely! If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you together.

I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?

Of course, we will do our best to arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. 

Will I have mobile phone reception? 

If you have worldwide coverage, you can bring your own mobile phone and use it to make domestic or international calls. Please check with your mobile service provider prior to departure regarding international roaming and associated costs. Alternatively, you may wish to purchase a local SIM card. Please ensure your phone is unlocked prior to departure. 

What do I need to pack? 

You will be sent a comprehensive packing list after you register for the adventure with everything you need to consider.

What happens if there is a medical emergency?

Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. 

All Inspired Adventures guides and Team Leaders are first aid trained. Our guides carry a satellite phone to be used if further assistance is required. On this trek there will also be a team doctor present.

How much does it cost to participate in this adventure? 

The total cost to participate in this adventure is $2,750 (inclusive of a $950 non-refundable deposit).

In addition, you are also committing to raising $3,500 (per person) for Vision Australia.

What happens if I need to cancel?

If you find yourself unable to attend, please notify us as soon as possible.

• Cancellation within 5 days of registration will receive a full refund.
• Cancellations more than 90 days prior to departure will receive a full refund minus the $950 deposit.
• Cancellations within 90 days of departure will receive no refund. Where applicable, we can provide assistance in making a travel insurance claim.

Do I need to have insurance?

Travel insurance is highly recommended for domestic adventures to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.

What happens if there is a medical emergency?

Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. All Inspired Adventures guides are first aid trained and well-equipped to handle any medical emergencies.

Take this new and exciting corporate social responsibility initiative and see your staff and brand take on this adventure as a team.

An Inspired Adventure with Vision Australia offers the following benefits:

• Employee engagement opportunities to attract and retain staff
• Long-term partnership with Vision Australia and increased community engagement
• Improved employee wellness through the impact of paying it forward
• Increased brand value through unique PR opportunities
• Improved workplace mental and physical health with a focus on fitness and training for the challenge
• Increased visibility through an innovative approach to corporate social responsibility
• Team building opportunities across departments through the achievement of a common goal
• Great networking opportunities

Find out more by downloading our corporate sponsorship pack HERE or contacting Myra Woodley, Community Fundraising Coordinator Vision Australia, on 0414 891 399 or Myra.Woodley@visionaustralia.org.