Year 12 students walk 80km for Launceston Grammar's annual walkathon

School captains Grace Robertson and George Calvert were ready and eager to lead their cohort of 90 on the 80 kilometre walk. The walkathon is not just a fundraiser but a bonding moment for the students as they journey through their final year of school.

READ MORE: Victim accuses Tasmanian government of shaming child sex abuse victims

"During the 24 hours we'll form relationships and improve bonds," George said.

"After this, every one will be much closer."

It will be up to the students to motivate each other to get to the end.

"We'll be reminding each other that it's not going to be forever, the pain will only last for 24 hours," Grace said.

"And reminding ourselves why we're doing this. We're supporting this charity and we'd really like to raise as much money as possible."

George said "a kind word" will go a long way during the walk.

"Just trying to be as supportive as possible," he said.

READ MORE: Sport leaders desperate for action on Launceston facilities

Grace said this year's walkathon would raise money for the #letherspeak and #letusspeak charity.

"The charity aims to raise awareness for sexual assault victims and help them to have a voice," she said.

The decision to support this charity was inspired by Grace Tame's 2021 address.

George said the charity was particularly special as some people in the cohort had their own experiences with sexual assault and harassment.

"It's close to a lot of people's hearts here, we're happy to raise some funds for it," he said.

READ MORE: After 30 years, Kings Meadows Florist will have a new owner

The 24-hour walk seems a daunting task but it's massive history provides plenty of motivation.

"Some people have been here since junior school, we've been watching the grade 12's go out and now it's us," George said.

The students started in Deloraine on Wednesday, April 13, but will have plenty of stops along the way.

"I'm sure people will still be pretty dreary eyed," George said.

Support from Grammar families will make the journey much easier.

"We've got so many volunteers driving utes, helping out with dinner and really supporting us to achieve this major challenge," Grace said.

Headmaster Richard Ford said it was always a great day when the grade 12 students went on their walkathon.

"Every year, the Grammar School community is extremely proud of the young men and women who walk to raise funds for charity," Mr Ford said.

READ MORE: World Supermodel Production and Miss Teen Australia Finals coming to state

The two previous years, the year 12 students raised over $70,000.

To boost the fundraising there is also a cocktail evening in term 2. Post walkathon, the grade 12 students will walk right into their end of term break.

What do you think? Send us a letter to the editor:

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content: