Hike to Heal Australia, which runs the annual Hike to Heal Scavenger Hike at Mount Peel Bushland between Westbrook and Drayton, has been named the recipient of the prestigious Jude Bugeja – Peer Experience Award at the Queensland Mental Health Achievement Awards.

Hike to Heal is an organisation committed to destigmatising suicide and promoting mental well-being through outdoor adventures.

This award recognises exceptional commitment to improving the lives of Queenslanders living with mental illness and suicide loss.

The Queensland Mental Health Achievement Awards celebrate individuals and organisations that have made significant contributions to mental health advocacy and support in the region.

The Jude Bugeja – Peer Experience Award, in particular, acknowledges those who have lived through the challenges of mental illness and suicide loss and have demonstrated remarkable dedication to helping others on their mental health journeys.

Open Minds Board Chair, Joanne Jessop said the Judges unanimously agreed that the iconic Hike to Heal Scavenger Hike has made a significant contribution to reducing stigma and raising awareness for mental illness and should be commended for the organisers’ diligent efforts.

Their journey began with founder Linda Barton and her family’s personal experience with suicide loss challenges, and it has since blossomed into a powerful platform for others to find healing and resilience.

“I am grateful to our team of volunteers, sponsors, community partners and local residents for their ongoing support of the Scavenger hike which is now in its third year,” Ms Barton said.

“Without them the event would not happen.”

This article appeared in On Our Selection News, 19 October 2023.