Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Smith Family Challenge?
Now in its 17th year, The Smith Family Challenge is an annual fundraising event. Started in 2008 by a former Smith Family Board Member, Paul Tobin, the event has raised over $15 million to date. It is a multi-discipline, 100km adventure race over two days, where teams of four raise $40,000 to support The Smith Family's Learning for Life program.
Who runs the Challenge?
The Challenge is supported by a committee of volunteers who guide the event management, recruit the participants, and drive the team fundraising targets. The event is designed and managed by event specialists, ChallengeWorks.
When is the 2025 Event?
The Smith Family Challenge will run from the afternoon of March 6th to the afternoon of March 8th, 2025
What does the course involve?
Exact details remain a surprise until closer to the date! We can tell you it will involve navigation on foot, by bike and on water to the finish line. ChallengeWorks coordinates the course, safety, accommodation, food, equipment, support crew and is available to provide training and equipment advice.
Is there a maximum number of participants?
Yes, in 2025 there is a maximum of 20 teams and a total of 80 participants (so make sure you sign up early!)
How much does it cost?
Each team of 4 must aim to raise at least $40,000 (including a $2,000 donation per head to cover costs).
How fit do I need to be?
The Challenge is for your average middle-aged person to go beyond their everyday physical limits, collaborate with a team, and make a positive difference for young Australians in need. You are only as fit as the team you are with! A lot of the course is built around learning something new, navigating well, and using teamwork to get you to the finish line.
I am interested in joining the challenge, what do I do?
That's great! Register your team here or contact Tim from The Smith Family for more info [email protected]
How do I donate?
Just search for an individual or team and click 'sponsor'. All donations over $2 are tax deductible in Australia.
Where does the money go?
All Challengers are paying the full cost of this trip, so 100% of donations go directly to The Smith Family. This year the fundraising target is $1,200,000. This is enough to sponsor more than 1,500 Australian children in need through The Smith Family's Learning for Life program for a year.
What does The Smith Family do?
The Smith Family is a national children's education charity with a vision of a world where every child has the opportunity to change their future, no matter what their circumstances. We believe that education is one of the most powerful change agents, and we work with young Australians to overcome educational inequality caused by poverty – so they can thrive now and into their futures.
For more information, please visit The Smith Family website here.
