Move for mental health 

The community is being invited to help keep the ergs moving for 24 hours as part of Mahi for Mental Health, a fundraising challenge at F45 Training Whangaparāoa in support of I Am Hope.

The event, organised by Manly Volunteer Fire Brigade and F45, runs from 10am on Saturday, July 18, to 10am on Sunday, July 19, with all proceeds going to the charity’s youth mental health programmes. The organisers say the challenge is inspired by New Zealand’s suicide statistics.

Last year participants completed 617 kilometres on rowing ergs to reflect the 617 lives lost to suicide, along with 3500 burpees representing the estimated number of suicide attempts. This year organisers are aiming even higher, with a target of 2000 kilometres on the ergs and 7000 burpees over the 24-hour event.

The final hour, from 9am to 10am on Sunday, will be dedicated to remembering family members and friends lost to suicide. Participants are invited to take part on the ergs during this time, and a remembrance wall will be available for people wishing to display photographs of loved ones.

A range of activities is planned throughout the event, including a friendly Police vs Fire vs Ambulance challenge, a children’s hour from 4pm to 5pm on Saturday, and a social “Beers on Bikes” session from 8pm to 10pm, where participants can bring their own refreshments while taking turns on the ergs or completing burpees.

Organisers are encouraging people to drop in at any time during the 24 hours, particularly through the overnight period when volunteers will need extra support. Local businesses are also invited to donate goods or services for silent auctions and raffles, with every dollar raised going to I Am Hope.

Whether taking on the physical challenge, cheering participants on or making a donation, organisers hope the community will come together to support mental health and ensure there are never no empty ergs. F45 Training, 2 David Sidwell Place, Stanmore Bay.