A six week fitness challenge is aiming to help break down the health divide between city and remote patients.
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The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) launched 'Bondi to Bush' and people can now register their interest.
Participants will challenge themselves by walking, running or cycling the distance from Bondi to a remote rural location tracking their progress on fitness apps like Strava.
Anna Wall, originally from Dorrigo NSW, understands how important the RFDS is to regional NSW, having had family grow up in Dubbo.
"My grandma lived in Dubbo all her life and raised my mum and her family there," Ms Wall said.
"She was helped by the RFDS during her long health battle and in 1976 was set to be flown to Sydney again after a stroke, but sadly passed away.
"My grandma was only 42 when she passed, leaving two young kids behind. I have family dotted all around rural NSW and I know this story is just one of many where the RFDS made a real difference.
While Ms Wall never got to meet her grandmother, she said she was blessed to be healthy enough to take part and help other families in rural communities get their loved ones much needed care.
Kiri Oates, a doctor with the RFDS, has also signed up and is excited to get started.
"I find exercise is one of the best ways to combat stress and in these current times of isolation I need to hop on my bike more than ever," Kiri said
"Whether virtual rides, commuting or rides out in the bush I'm looking forward to improving my fitness, getting some headspace and raising money for the Bondi to Bush challenge."
Sign up is free and is suitable for all fitness levels. Challenges range from 5.9km a day to 27km a day.
The challenge is now underway, and can be done anywhere around the world, with consideration given to social distancing restrictions.
There are 4 Bondi to Bush challenges:
- Bondi to Orange: 250km - approx. 5.9km a day
- Bondi to Dubbo: 394km - approx. 9km a day
- Bondi to Cobar: 691km - approx. 16.4km a day
- Bondi to Broken Hill: 1149km - approx. 27km a day
For more information or to sign up please go to https://www.bonditobush.com.au.
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