In The Spirit

Secondary School

Up All Night Charity Event

By Samuel Quarmby (12.8)

On Saturday, 22 March, I took part in the Ronald McDonald House Charities - Up All Night event, walking 43.6 kilometres across Perth to help provide a home away from home and services that support the well-being of WA families with sick kids.

 

When I first heard about it, I wasn’t completely sure what made me want to do it. It didn’t exactly sound like my idea of fun. But something about the event stuck with me. Maybe it was the idea of people coming together for a cause bigger than themselves, or maybe I just felt like it was time to challenge myself again, physically, and emotionally.

 

I have to say I was very unprepared in the lead up to the event as I thought in my head it’s just a walk, I’ll be alright. But the realisation really hit me about halfway through when my legs began shaking and started to give out, feeling like I was about to collapse. That’s when I realized how blind sighted and naïve I was and regretted not training for it. But it was a chance to do something meaningful, something that could help people who are going through the hardest times of their lives.

 

The night of the marathon was honestly incredible. People of all ages showed up, some in running gear, some in fancy dress, others who were there to support their brave family and friends before they took off. There was a kind of unspoken understanding between everyone there, like we all knew we were walking for more than just ourselves. Strangers cheered each other on, shared snacks, swapped stories. It didn’t matter how fast you went, it just mattered that you kept going.

 

When I finally crossed the finish line, I was exhausted, sore, and incredibly glad. I also felt such a sense of achievement as our team raised over $27,000 which was a massive effort.

 

I felt proud in a way I hadn’t expected. Because while I didn’t talk about it much on the day, part of the reason I chose to do the walk was because of my older brother. He passed away from cancer a few years ago, and even though time has moved on, that loss still lingers in the quiet moments. I didn’t need to carry a sign or wear a photo to feel his presence, he was with me the whole way, in every step, every ache, every push to keep moving forward.

 

Taking part in that event reminded me that pain doesn’t have to be the end of the story. It can become fuel to do good, to raise awareness, to support others, and to honour the people we've loved and lost. I know I’ll never stop missing my brother, but now, instead of just feeling sad about what I have lost, I feel proud that I could do something in his memory, something that might help someone else’s sibling, child, or friend survive.

 

The marathon wasn’t just a walk, it was a reminder that even after loss, we can still find purpose, strength, and hope. The walk meant more to me than I ever thought it would. It wasn’t just about the kilometres or the medal, it was about love, remembrance, and hope. And I’ll carry that with me always and continue to take part in these worthy causes to make lives of those affected by such a devastating disease, a little bit better and for the families who are impacted by it.

 

My next “Give Back” event will be The Gibb Challenge from Friday, 16 – Friday, 23 May 2025.  This 660-kilometre team relay cycling event will raise much needed funds for the Kyle Andrews Foundation (KAF), another charity very close to my heart and my second year participating in this amazing event.

 

This challenge leads you on a Kimberley adventure from the deep port town of Derby to the world acclaimed million acres El Questro Wilderness Park. Overnight camping and fellowship at Imintji Community, Mount Elizabeth Station, Ellenbrae Station, and Home Valley Station.

Year 9 - 1950's Ballroom Dancing Social

The 1950's Ballroom Dancing Social with Mercedes College event will take place on Thursday, 5 June. From Week 1 to Week 6, our TC boys will practice with Mercedes College in the Sports Centre. The Mercedes students will create and design their own costumes in their textiles classes to wear for the evening. 

 

Further information

  • Prizes: For Best Dressed and Best Dancers  
  • Dinner Provided: Light Pizza (Vegetarian and Gluten Free Options)
  • Location: Trinity College Sports Centre

  • Arrival and Sign In: 5.15pm

    (Attendance will be recorded and mobile phones will be stored for the evening)

  • Finish: Pick-Up 8.00pm Sharp

    (Staff outside the Sports Centre will assist with pick-up of Mercedes/Trinity students)

  • Directions: Follow directions on the Trinity College map to the Sports Centre.