Everyone knows a good long walk can clear your head, but did you know it can help save a life? Hosted by the Mental Awareness Foundation and supported by Smartline, the 2016 MAF Walk for Awareness is an awesome event held in conjunction with Mental Health Week.

The 8 kilometre walk around the iconic Brisbane river is designed to bring the community together to support each other, to break the silence on mental illness and to contribute to the funding of programs that are making a difference on the front line with mental health issues. How rad is that?

Commencing at 7:00 am, the event will begin with an inspirational opening ceremony in remembrance of those who have been lost to depression and mental illness, as well as honour those who are still continuing the battle. After a quick warm up and stretch, walkers will begin their journey around Brisbane’s winding river and beautiful scenery including the Goodwill Bridge, the Botanic Gardens and Story Bridge.

At the end of the walk, participants will be able to enjoy a BBQ lunch, drinks and entertainment. All ages and fitness levels are welcome – the event is both family friendly and pet friendly too, so bring your pooches!

After both losing someone close to them due to suicide, Wesley Vasile and his brother Tudor Vasile founded the Mental Awareness Foundation in 2011. Their aim is to raise funds for charities working on the front line of tackling mental health issues, as well as raising awareness and breaking the stigma behind mental health.