This year’s Walking Challenge was an opportunity to get moving, work towards a goal and connect with colleagues and friends.
During the Challenge, the ‘Share Your Journey’ competition encouraged participants to submit a short story and photos to showcase how their health and wellbeing was positively impacted by participating in the Challenge.
There were a number of prizes on offer donated by Medibank, HESTA, Aware Super and Maxxia. We would like to congratulate the winners and share how the Walking Challenge motivated them.
Equal 1st place – Melissa Hyde
Melissa Hyde, from team Super Steppers, expressed her journey of the Challenge in a poem. For Melissa the Challenge was an opportunity to make a commitment to a healthier lifestyle and become an example for those around her.
“…COVID had challenged me, more than I thought, Mindfulness and a fresh beginning had to be sought.
Finding my inner child and purpose once more, Excited for new beginnings and challenges galore.
Hoping to empower and inspire those I lead, With my truthful self, rejuvenated indeed.
Thank you to my team and this challenge for my new chapter, It has been the most inspirational factor.
It’s interesting how I could now begin to see, What was staring, right there in front of me.”
Won a $250 Rebel Sport voucher donated by Maxxia.
Equal 1st place – Tara Harvey
Tara Harvey, from team CASEY HIS, enjoyed participating in the Challenge with her team. It was the first time anyone from her department had participated in the Challenge and she received great encouragement from all involved.
“Since Day 1 we encouraged each other through messages, photos, step counts and motivational quotes.
My teammates challenged themselves to push further than they ever imagined, and it is reflected in their health, positive mindset and the fact we now work better together at Monash Health.
Throughout the Challenge, we updated the Department on our success and our colleagues who were not taking part were encouraging from the sidelines.”
Won a Nutribullet donated by Medibank.
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2nd place – Anna Welsh
Anna Welsh, from team Game of Strolls, was encouraged by her team members who were passionate, positive and caring- and all work in various areas at Dandenong Hospital. With conflicting rosters, the highlight of the Challenge was coordinating a team walk on a sunny day to the Dandenong Market!
“Our different personalities and qualities made us a very cohesive team. Our mental health has improved because of all the laughter and positive experiences we shared.
During the isolation of these prolonged lockdowns, this activity was just what we needed. Our physical health, endurance, friendship and team spirit has grown stronger.
We look forward to our next challenge together!”
Won an Air Fryer donated by Aware Super.
3rd place – Janelle Sanders
Janelle Sanders, from team Casey Crusaders, achieved some personal milestones whilst participating in the Challenge. The fallen trees, muddy paths and wildlife that Janelle encountered on her walks were no match to the commitment and enthusiasm she had to reach her daily goals.
“I hate the cold and wet, but walk every day I did, because I was in a team and the challenge had been set. Whether it was sunny, raining or just freezing cold. I would rug up and go.
Never have I walked before or after work, only on days off, but I challenged myself to do this and felt the best ever. One of my biggest achievements yet!
The calm and quiet I found walking in the bush, whether it was raining, or brilliant blue skies made me feel at peace with the world. It didn’t matter how tired I felt afterwards, the achievement of pushing myself was such an adrenaline rush.”
Won an Air Fryer donated by Aware Super.
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There were so many great entries! Here are a few honourable mentions:
“It is good for the soul. My legs feel stronger. My head feels clearer. My competitive spirit is ignited! These walks have done me good.” – Abby Foster (from team Pimp My Stride)
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“Working with my team we kept each other motivated, it was an awesome challenge, and I loved every minute of it. It’s been fun and kept my spirits alive during lockdown.” – Karen Humphreys (from team Kingston NW2)
“In these troubling COVID times, the Challenge has helped me enjoy the fresh air for my body and soul. Both my husband and I walked twice a day, the walks have improved our fitness levels and tightened our bond.” – Serena Demko (from team Walkaholics 2)
“The Challenge has been an opportunity to keep fit, keep our spirit up and keep us engaged and connected in this current unpredictable time.” – Steph Guo (from team MET UP)
We would like to thank all the participants who submitted entries into the competition. Your collective enthusiasm and commitment were showcased in the goals you achieved, challenges you had overcome and the support you gave to your colleagues.
For resources on health and wellbeing, visit the Monash Health COVID-19 employee website.
Approved by Karen Lowe.