Grampians Health Edenhope ‘push-up’ the bar for mental health awareness

The challenge aims to raise awareness and funds for mental health services, in light of the 3,249 people who died by suicide in 2022. 

Led by community health nurse Cath McDonald, staff from various Edenhope departments balanced an average of 135 push-ups per day, over 24 days. 

By the close of the challenge, each team member had completed the 3,249 push-ups to match the number of lives lost to suicide. 

“It wasn’t an easy physical challenge, but I think that just made us think harder about the cause,” Cath said. 

“As a team we raised more than $1,000 for Lifeline Australia, but more importantly it gave us a reason to talk about mental health with friends and family. 

“It was a great challenge to be a part of and I’m proud of my colleagues for getting involved and making it to the end.” 

Support Services Manager Kurtis Stringer squeezed push-ups between getting himself and kids to school and long work days. 

"There were some early mornings and late nights, trying to fit them all in," he said. 

"I got some weird looks but had to hit the floor whenever and wherever possible!" 

In total, the Push-Up Challenge attracted 218,000 Australians and raised more than $12 million for mental health services.