Peaks for Purpose: $102,545 Raised For Mark Hughes Foundation

Three Peaks NSW Adventure

In May 2024, a devoted group of supporters of the Mark Hughes Foundation took on the formidable Three Peaks NSW Challenge in Kosciuszko National Park. This challenge involved climbing three of the highest peaks in Australia, a journey that covered an impressive 22 kilometers.

The Mark Hughes Foundation (MHF), founded in 2014 by former rugby league player Mark Hughes and his wife Kirralee, is an Australian charity dedicated to raising funds and awareness for brain cancer research. Inspired by Hughes' own battle with brain cancer, the foundation aims to improve the lives of those affected through funding research, promoting early diagnosis, and providing patient support.

As part of the Three Peaks Challenge, the team raised an astounding $102,545 for the foundation. This incredible sum will play a crucial role in supporting the foundation's mission. It will aid in advancing groundbreaking research, raising much-needed awareness, and providing essential support for individuals and families affected by brain cancer. The challenge was a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through teamwork, dedication, and a shared goal. The funds raised will help propel the foundation's efforts forward, ensuring they can continue to make a meaningful impact in the fight against brain cancer.

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Three Peaks NSW 2024

20 participants
$102,545 raised
Avg raised per person $5,127

Strategic Activity

Objectives

The Mark Hughes Foundation’s Three Peaks Challenge 2024 had a group of 20 supporters and achieved remarkable results across its key objectives in fundraising, community engagement, and awareness raising. The adventure raised an impressive $102,545 with each participant averaging $5,127 raised. This achievement highlights the participants' dedication and the strong support from their networks, showcasing the potential of focused, smaller events with longer lead times to generate substantial funds.

Beyond fundraising, the challenge fostered a profound sense of community and solidarity. Bringing together major donors, stakeholders, and new supporters of the Mark Hughes Foundation, participants from diverse backgrounds, many personally affected by brain cancer, found a supportive platform to share experiences and forge meaningful connections. By engaging a diverse group within and beyond the foundation, the challenge served as a pivotal platform to raise awareness about brain cancer and amplify the foundation’s mission. Inclusivity ensured people from all walks of life could participate, effectively spreading the message far and wide.

Team Engagement

In the lead-up to the Mark Hughes Foundation’s Three Peaks Challenge a dynamic WhatsApp group kept the participants connected and engaged, providing continuous support and updates, which fostered a sense of belonging and commitment among the team.

Further enhancing the engagement, participants attended online meet and greets and travel prep sessions with Inspired Adventures, allowing them to stay motivated and feel connected to the cause and each other. This support network was vital in maintaining high spirits and dedication throughout the preparation period.

Building on Experience

With more adventure-based fundraising events coming up, the Mark Hughes Foundation's aim is to not only meet financial goals but also reinforce the organisation’s mission and values among its supporters and the broader public. By maintaining a strong focus on community engagement and continuous improvement, the Mark Hughes Foundation aims to build a sustainable and impactful fundraising program that supports its mission, To combat brain cancer.

The power of community

Fundraising stories from the team

Lauma and Maija

Meet Lauma and Maija, a remarkable mother-daughter duo whose story is bound to touch your heart. Lauma, a brain cancer survivor, teamed up with her daughter Maija to raise funds and tackle the Three Peaks NSW challenge. In the lead up to the challenge, they organised a BBQ fundraiser at hardware chain Bunnings to raise funds for the foundation. The BBQ event was a bustling success, filled with the support of family and friends. "We had many family and friends assist us, and it was a big busy day," Maija recalls. Alongside the BBQ, Maija shared their fundraising page on Facebook and Instagram, ensuring everyone had the chance to contribute.

Their fundraising efforts culminated in an unforgettable trek and three peaks adventure. Surpassing their expectations, the event brought together inspiring people, fantastic guides, delicious food, and comfortable accommodation. "The walk was hard work but incredibly rewarding," Maija shares. "Mum and I had the best time, and I was so happy we got to achieve this together. We were so grateful for the experience and support and loved every minute of the journey”.

Ashley, Matt, Jonathan, and Jason

Ashley, Matt, Jonathan, and Jason took on the Three Peaks NSW Challenge in memory of their beloved mum, Trude, who passed away in 2020 from stage IV Glioblastoma, a particularly aggressive form of brain cancer. They raised an impressive $27,000 for the Mark Hughes Foundation. Their fundraising relied on tapping into their personal networks, with significant support from the Canberra business community. Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn were instrumental, with each member sharing their unique story to drive donations.

Ashley advises others on fundraising, "Be authentic, explain WHY you're doing the activity, and always thank your donors personally." They also organised a raffle to include those unable to donate directly, securing prize donations from companies and promoting it widely on social media. Through determination, authenticity, and community support, Ashley, Matt, Jonathan, and Jason honoured Trude's legacy and contributed to a cause that offers hope to many others.