Along with their work in regional Australia, the Fred Hollows Foundation is a leading development NGO in more than 25 countries across Africa, Asia and the Middle East. They rely almost entirely on donations to deliver life-changing treatment and care.

It’s why the money raised through the Sydney Harbour Hike is so crucial.

“The Fred Hollows Foundation’s supporters are the lifeline of our work. Without their generosity, we wouldn’t be able to help as many people as we do,” says Hollows. “It’s that simple.”

What to expect from the Hike

In signing up to the Sydney Harbour Hike, you’ll not only get a chance to raise money for a worthy cause and to challenge yourself physically—but to meet likeminded people too.

People like Ben Philips, a humanitarian and advocate who has hiked more than 1,000km in charitable endurance events, including both Sydney Harbour Hikes.

“I would say the Sydney Harbour Hike can be physically and mentally challenging but so too is living without sight,” Ben says. “Therefore, every painful step is extremely worthwhile.”

Ben’s connection with the Foundation goes beyond his many years of support. He has been blind since birth, and personally received treatment from Fred Hollows when he was a baby.

“More than 30 years on, I am still supporting the Fred Hollows Foundation to cure the world of blindness,” he says. “I love that Fred Hollows’ family are so heavily involved in the Foundation’s work because their passion for the cause is genuine and trustworthy.”

To Ben, the Sydney Harbour Hike is a “totally immersive experience” that appeals to all his other senses. “I love the freedom of being outdoors to hear the ocean waves, feel the warm sunshine, smell the flowering plants and taste the salt air,” he says.

When asked to offer encouragement to other participants, Ben evokes the inspiration of Fred Hollows himself: “Fred Hollows was somebody who would roll up his sleeves and get the job done, he never shied away from hard work or getting his hands dirty,” he says. “All the camaraderie and encouragement you receive from other participants along the journey will inspire you to finish the hike with them.”

Gabi Hollows agrees, saying the 34-kilometre Sydney Harbour Hike has always been a fantastic day, full of smiles, laughter and connection. She gets great joy out of sharing the day with her daughters, Anna Louise, Rosa and Ruth, and having them see the enormous support for their Dad.

“I hope that the third Sydney Harbour Hike will remind everyone of the legacy that Fred left behind, working to ensure that no person is needlessly blind or vision impaired.”

Support the Fred Hollows Foundation and register now for the Sydney Harbour Hike.