By KATHRYN BERMINGHAM
UPWEY resident Tammy Gear is used to carrying a heavy load. Between studying full time, working part time as a waitress and training up to eight hours a week as a volunteer firefighter, she keeps an active and busy schedule. But later this year, Tammy will face one of her biggest challenges yet when she climbs all 88 stories of the Eureka Tower in full gear for the annual ‘Eureka Climb.’
The event is one of the highest vertical races in the world and draws participants from all over Australia. It’s open to anyone and every year the ‘Emergency Service Challenge’ is hotly contested and proves a crowd favourite. Contestants from all areas of emergency services race to the top wearing their full uniform and carrying gear. For Tammy, it’s all part of the experience of being a volunteer firefighter.
“I got involved through friends and I love being a part of it.
“I helped our team train last year and I really wanted to get involved. It’s such a good cause.”
Tammy has been climbing the 1000 Steps in Ferntree Gully at least once a week to prepare for the event, and plans to step up her training during her upcoming university break.
The event raises money for disadvantaged young people in Australia and abroad for charity partners Whitelion and Interplast.
Last year’s event raised over $250,000 and Event Director Ben King says that this year the target is even higher.
“2013 was the biggest year yet for the Eureka Climb with over 2500 participants and a crowd of hundreds watching the action.
“By all indications, 2014 is set to be the best year yet with registrations coming in from all over the country and overseas.”
The Eureka Climb will be held on Sunday 16 November. Registration for the event is now open and climbers can register online at www.eurekaclimb.com.au.
