Community
1 November, 2023
‘Walking off the War Within’
YOUNG and old are invited to join this Sunday’s ‘Walking off the War Within’ walk at Warrnambool’s Lake Pertobe.
Registrations for the walk will open at 7.30am, with the event scheduled to start at 8am. It is hoped the walk will shine a light on mental health and help fight depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.
‘Walking off the War Within’ is held in memory of Nathan Shanahan, a returned soldier and firefighter – along with other fallen servicemen and women who have taken their own lives after battling mental health issues.
The walk is for emergency services personnel, Defence Force personnel and members of the public to come together to share the burden and march as one.
Nathan was a strong advocate for mental health and PTSD who, sadly, lost his own battle in December 2016.
He created the image of a soldier with a shadow on his back, and walks right across Australia are now a way to ensure Nathan’s legacy continues.
In April 2015 Nathan walked from Mildura to Adelaide with a 20kg pack to raise awareness and funds for PTSD and depression.
That was his ‘Walking off the War Within.’ All participants in this Sunday’s walk are encouraged, where possible, to wear their colours or uniform to display a united front.
Following Sunday’s walk there will be a free family picnic and concert from 10am-3pm at Lake Pertobe.
A free sausage sizzle, petting zoo and face painting will also be on offer while several musicians keep audiences entertained.
