Wounded Heroes Australia is calling on communities to take part in the Wounded Heroes 24 Hour Challenge, a nationwide fundraising event supporting veterans and Defence families in crisis.
The flagship event will take place in Townsville on 19 and 20 September 2026, with participants gathering at Castle Hill for 24 hours of endurance, mateship and community spirit.
Unlike a traditional endurance event, the Wounded Heroes 24 Hour Challenge has no requirement to complete a set number of laps or cross the finish line first. Instead, it is open to anyone wanting to make a difference, whether an experienced runner, a casual walker, a Defence member, a veteran, a workplace team, a sporting club or a school. Participants take on the challenge at their own pace over 24 hours, supported by live entertainment and the local community cheering them on.
Far North Queensland is home to one of Australia’s largest Defence communities, with thousands of serving ADF members, veterans and their families living throughout the region. Every dollar raised through the challenge goes towards Wounded Heroes Australia’s work delivering emergency financial and practical support to veterans and Defence families facing crisis, homelessness or family and domestic violence, support that is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
The Townsville event is part of a broader movement of 24-hour fundraising challenges held around the country in support of Wounded Heroes Australia, from CrossFit-style “Hero Workout” events to community rides and barbecues, all built on the same idea: that when a veteran or Defence family faces crisis, help cannot wait.
Wounded Heroes Australia is a sponsor of The Australian Women’s Weekly Love Stories Podcast. Listen wherever you get your podcasts. Find out more here.
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