Mental health challenges can often feel like climbing a mountain — steep, overwhelming, and isolating. But just like on the trail, we don’t face those climbs alone. We do it Side-by-Side.

The Side-by-Side Challenge is a bold initiative that brings emergency service workers, their families, and supporters together to raise awareness and funds for the mental health of those who serve our communities. From the rugged Kokoda Track in 2022 to the soaring heights of Everest Base Camp in 2024, each challenge has symbolised the resilience and camaraderie of our emergency services.

Now we’re aiming even higher in 2026 — summiting two of the Himalayas’ most iconic peaks: Mera Peak (6,461m) and Island Peak (6,189m). This 26-day expedition will see a group of courageous participants take on high-altitude alpine terrain to raise critical funds for the Emergency Services Foundation, supporting mental health prevention and early intervention programs for Victoria’s emergency workers.

Because when mental health struggles feel like mountains, we climb them together. We face adversity, forge connections, and show that no one needs walk alone.

Please show your support for the brave and dedicated few undertaking this trek — and for the Emergency Services Foundation — by donating now.

Want to do even more?

Become a CrowdRaiser!

Click the Fundraise For This Cause button above or the Create CrowdRaiser button below and follow the steps.

Let’s climb mountains — not just in Nepal, but within ourselves.

Side by Side. For each other. For mental health.