Two Mount Gambier women recently walked from Badenochs Deli to Port MacDonnell in memory of domestic violence victims.
Domestic violence survivor Katherine van den Hoogen and friend Alyce Vaughn embarked on the ‘Walk to Remember’ to fundraise for Four Reasons Why to help domestic violence victims and raise awareness.
Ms van den Hoogen and Ms Vaughn were surrounded by support before they set off on their 24km journey.
They made pit stops along the way and crossed the finish line after almost four and a half hours of walking.
“It was just so surreal,” Ms van den Hoogen said.
“Our kids and partners walked with us through the finishing line, so I was really proud of that because we are making a stand for our kids as well to let them know that it is not okay.
“It was amazing, I would do it again in a heartbeat if it meant getting the word out there, saving someone’s life.”
Four Reasons Why chair Di Ind and Grant District Mayor Kylie Boston were amongst those who greeted them at the finish line.
Ms van den Hoogen said walking to the Bay was a personal goal of hers.
“In my dark days, walking got me through a lot, and times when I was on my own, I went to the Bay,” she said.
“Walking helps clear your mind, it really does, it just puts you in a better frame of mind.”
Four Reasons Why founder Trudi Shelton was proud of the pair.
“I thought it was phenomenal and I thought it was very inspiring to watch them along the way and watch them on their journey,” Ms Shelton said.
“Everything that led up to the day, everything that led up to the walk, Katherine’s story, her why, her reason for doing it, and to actually see it come to fruition, it was incredible to be a part of.
“It was an honour to be able to support her to achieve her dream.
“I walked the last 100 metres with her and Alyce; it was actually quite emotional, and I did get a bit teary because it was just really special.
“Everybody that came together to put this on and really get behind the girls for their walk, that was phenomenal as well, and everything just clicked into place.”
More than $8000 was raised, well and truly surpassing their initial $5000 goal.
“I was absolutely ecstatic with the support and the generosity of the community was absolutely phenomenal,” Ms van den Hoogen said.
Ms van den Hoogen said Ms Shelton recently helped her with major household items when leaving the house she was in.
“She is an amazing, beautiful person with a beautiful soul,” Ms van den Hoogen said.
“She does all this good for the community, helps everybody, and I just wanted to give a bit back to her.”
Ms van den Hoogen plans to hold the Walk to Remember annually, but in town so the community can participate.
Ms Shelton said many locals supported the event by either donating to the cause or donating their time, services, or goods.
“It was a lot of people and businesses in the community that came together to make this a success for Katherine and Alyce, and that was a beautiful thing to watch as well,” she said.
“I am super proud and super grateful to all those businesses and services that supported us and Katherine and Alyce on the day.
“Thank you to all the community members and all the businesses that got behind this event.”
