Mt. Kosciuszko Charity Challenge: Trekking with Purpose

At Huma Charity Challenge, we believe in harnessing the power of adventure to support vital causes. Our Mt. Kosciuszko Charity Challenge is a prime example—bringing together people from all walks of life to raise funds for life-saving research while trekking through one of Australia’s most scenic alpine landscapes. With no fees charged to partner charities and the support of 50 years of World Expeditions’ expertise, our challenges are designed to make the greatest impact—on both the cause and the participants.

Breathing in the crisp mountain air and tightening my boots, I was excited to get started on this purposeful journey to climb Kosi with 25 inspiring trekkers, who had raised nearly $40,000 for lung cancer research.

Championed by Dr. Nick Pavlakis from TOGA and organized by Huma Charity Challenge, this adventure through the Mt. Kosciuszko National Park supported the Thoracic Oncology Group of Australasia (TOGA), a leader in lung cancer and mesothelioma research across Australia and New Zealand. With limited government funding, TOGA relies on initiatives like ours to bridge the gap for critical research and trials.

From the start, there was a strong sense of unity. We came from various backgrounds—oncologists, radiologists, patients, families, and researchers—but we shared a common goal. Some had personal connections to lung cancer, while others were simply driven to help raise funds and awareness for a cause they believed in.

The first steps on the trail were energising, but the challenge quickly became real. Ten minutes in, one trekker was ready to turn back, feeling overwhelmed. But thinking of the support behind them, they found a second wind and pushed forward. Soon, they were updating their supporters, turning each step into momentum for fundraising. By the end of the trek, the exhaustion had faded, replaced by a sense of accomplishment that had everyone dancing and celebrating—blisters and all.

The views along the Main Range Track were breathtaking. Under clear blue skies and with not a breath of wind, we were enveloped by the beauty of the alpine landscape. A highlight was crossing the Snowy River and ascending to Blue Lake, one of only four cirque lakes on mainland Australia. As we climbed higher, the landscape unfolded with twisted colourful snow gums; their unique ability to rejuvenate through snowfall rather than fire, adding to the wonder of this alpine environment. The panoramic views stretched all the way to Victoria revealing this spectacular, vast and ancient land.

Our guides, Saskia and Soren, brought expertise and a sense of adventure to the experience. Saskia’s knowledge of the local flora, fauna, and Indigenous significance of the area made every step richer, while Soren’s background in high alpine mountaineering brought an extra layer of confidence and adventure to the journey.

Beyond the physical challenge, this trek was about connection—sharing stories, supporting each other, and reflecting on the reason we were there. Conversations on the trail ranged from personal cancer experiences to the beauty of our surroundings.

By the end, the TOGA supporters had raised nearly $36,000, a sum that would be matched by the government, doubling its impact. It was inspiring to know that every step had contributed to life-changing research. The final night, with Greg Thorsby’s live music, was unforgettable—a perfect celebration of our journey and the bonds we’d formed.

Dr. Pavlakis hopes this trek will become an annual tradition for TOGA, and after experiencing its impact firsthand, I’m confident it will continue to grow.

As I made my way home, I knew that together, we had made a difference. That’s a summit worth reaching again and again!

At Huma Charity Challenge, we’re proud to offer meaningful, safe, and fully supported adventures that change lives—yours and those you support. With tailor-made itineraries, an expert guiding team, and a firm commitment to sustainability and zero fees for charities, your next journey can be one that leaves a legacy. Whether it's Mt. Kosciuszko, the Larapinta, or Everest Base Camp, we’re ready to help you turn passion into purpose—one step at a time.

Written by Megan, who did the Mt. Kosciuszko Charity Challenge in 2025