Only two more days to go!
There's just over two days to go in the Everest Virtual Challenge, and although the first teams have already reached the summit, there's still plenty of time for other teams to get there too.
Plus, the fundraising element of the challenge will stay open until the end of April. So for anyone interested in winning the highest individual fundraiser prize - a kayak and paddle valued at $550 - the competition is still on!
We have received fantastic support during the 2008 challenge. A total of 159 teams took part this year - which is up from just 62 in 2007.
Teams were out and about doing group walks, organising fundraising sausage sizzles and much more for the kids at the Royal Children's Hospital.
The Workpac team, pictured above, are one of many local businesses that support the challenge each year. Last year Workpac rasied $10,000 during the Everest Virtual Challenge, and this year they're hoping to raise even more!
"It's hard yakka in the timeframe you're given and takes quite a bit of dedication," team member Rebecca Holgate said.
"Workpac chose to participate as we thought it was an excellent cause and we want to give something back to our community," she said.
It's not just Brisbane teams that are getting involved with the challenge. Toowoomba's Milne Bay Misfits from both the 25th /49th battalion Royal Queensland Regiment and Defence Force Recruiting were serious contenders for first place this year.
Team member Dea Carroll said they were doing the challenge to get fit, but also to help the community.
"Most of us have kids of our own and we want to make sure if anything happened to them there would be the facilities to help them."
So to all the wonderful teams in this year's challenge - good luck in your final ascent to the summit, and with your fundraising efforts!
Legendary climber Michael Groom
Mountain climber, Michael Groom, has faced many of his own challenges in life, and is a proud supporter of the Everest Virtual Challenge.
He faced his own personal Everest when he lost all his toes to frostbite, but later went on to climb Mt Everest without oxygen.
Joel's Story
Young Joel has faced his own personal challenge. At the age of just nine he suffered a terrible burns accident while staying at his grandparent’s property in Nambour.
