Hundreds of Young People Unite in June to Complete Over 3,000 Push-Ups Each for Mental Health Awareness
In a powerful display of solidarity and strength, hundreds of young people across Wangaratta and the surrounding regions have committed to an extraordinary challenge this June: completing more than 3,000 push-ups each to raise awareness and vital funds for youth mental health.
Organized as part of The Push-Up Challenge—a national fitness and mental health campaign—participants aim not only to test their physical limits but to shine a light on the critical mental health issues facing young Australians today.
More Than Just Reps: It’s About Being Seen
For 21-year-old Kirra, a proud participant and member of headspace Albury Wodonga, this initiative is deeply personal.
“Being part of the Push-Up Challenge is more than just counting reps,” Kirra said. “It’s about showing up for young people who feel invisible. Every push-up represents someone’s struggle, someone’s story, and a reminder that we’re not alone.”
This sentiment is echoed by many other participants, especially as the region, like much of Australia, continues to navigate the long-term impacts of social isolation, academic pressures, and economic uncertainty on youth mental health.
What Is The Push-Up Challenge?
The Push-Up Challenge is a unique fitness-based mental health initiative that encourages Australians to complete 3,249 push-ups over 24 days in June. The number 3,249 represents the number of lives lost to suicide in Australia in 2022—one of the nation’s most confronting statistics.
Participants can take part as individuals or as part of a team, with the daily push-up target changing each day to reflect meaningful mental health facts or statistics.
Local Efforts Making a Big Difference
Schools, sports clubs, community groups, and families in and around Wangaratta have rallied behind the challenge. From early morning sessions in parks to group push-up breaks in classrooms and community centers, the energy is contagious.
“It’s been incredible to see our community come together,” said a local teacher who helped coordinate her school’s involvement. “Our students are not only learning about physical fitness—they’re learning how to open up, how to listen, and how to support their peers.”
headspace Albury Wodonga has played a key role in mobilizing young people in the region, providing education on mental health, coping strategies, and the importance of seeking help.
Why It Matters
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, suicide remains the leading cause of death for people aged 15–24 in Australia. Youth mental health services across the country report rising levels of anxiety, depression, and stress among teenagers and young adults.
The Push-Up Challenge helps break the stigma around mental health by encouraging open conversations in homes, schools, and workplaces. Each push-up becomes a powerful act of advocacy—fostering awareness, reducing shame, and directing attention to the support systems available.
Fundraising for Real Impact
All funds raised through the Wangaratta efforts will go directly to mental health organizations, including headspace, Lifeline, and Movember, ensuring that young people across the country can access timely and tailored mental health support.
In 2024, the Push-Up Challenge raised over $14 million nationwide. This year, with even more participation and community backing, the goal is to exceed that milestone—and Wangaratta’s youth are determined to do their part.
A Community United by Purpose
Whether participants reach the full 3,249 push-up goal or do what they can each day, the real victory lies in the message: mental health matters. And no one has to struggle alone.
“Sometimes, when things get tough, it can feel like you’re the only one,” Kirra reflected. “But this challenge reminds us that we are surrounded by people who care, people who are willing to show up, sweat, and push through—together.”
