Nearly 400 individuals are expected to take part in this year’s Walking Off The War Within, an event that raises awareness for mental health.
The walk is planned for Saturday, 30 May, at Pelican Park in Clontarf.
Brisbane-based event organiser Lee Duke said he began the event with his friend and fellow veteran Nathan Shanahan, a returned soldier.
“He completed the first walk in 2015 carrying 20kg over 400km to raise awareness for mental health and to start real conversations about post-traumatic stress disorder,” Lee said.
Nathan lost his own personal battle with mental health in December 2016, and since then, Walking Off The War Within has expanded across Australia and the United Kingdom.
“I started the Brisbane version of the walk in 2020, and the community support continues to grow stronger each time,” Lee said.
A Community Walk for Connection, Awareness and Support
“The walk is open to everyone, not just veterans or first responders. A big part of what makes this event special is the number of people who have been with us from the very beginning and keep coming back each year.
“Some walk because they knew Nathan, others because they’ve served themselves, and many join simply to support someone they care about or to help raise awareness around mental health.”
This event is free to attend, with funds raised going to two organisations, SMEAC and Trek2Health, which provide assistance to veterans and first responders.
The course runs along the Redcliffe foreshore, with 5km, 10km and 20km turnaround points. It is open to participants of all ages and abilities.
Afterwards, the Deception Bay RSL will provide breakfast for those who take part, and SMEAC will supply coffee.
This year’s event will also include displays and performances from the Australian Army Band, the Australian Defence Force, Redcliffe Scottish Pipe Band, Queensland Police Service (QPS), Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS), Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES), and the ADF Cadets.
“We get a real mix of people, families with kids in prams, veterans, first responders, community groups and plenty of locals who just want to be part of something meaningful,” Lee said.
“It’s become a day where people feel comfortable to walk, talk and connect, and that’s exactly what this event is all about.”
For more information and to register, go to walkoffww.com/brisbane-2026-2
Walking Off The War Within
- Saturday, 30 May, 7.30am-1pm
- Pelican Park
- 101 Hornibrook Esplanade, Clontarf
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