A Whitsunday local is about to embark on one of the most meaningful yet confronting adventures of their life, heading over to Papua New Guinea to complete the Kokoda Trail with 21 other emergency service personnel.
In less than two weeks Ti Hokins will begin the mission that’s taken months to plan, but a lifetime to prepare for.
Having previously worked for the emergency services, Ti has witnessed first-hand the devastating mental health impacts of a profession that often encounters trauma, violence and extreme situations.
“I’ve been around the emergency services my whole life, I come from an ambulance family,” said Ti.
“And I’m sick of reading about another police officer, ambo or fiery who has taken their life.
“This is really the ‘why’ behind what I am doing, mental health is such a taboo subject, it’s not talked about easily and I want to help change that in some small way.” in fact, Emergency services personnel are at an increased risk of mental health disorders and suicide than any other profession. Ti said, “our emergency services personnel are often there on the worst days of our lives. I want these superhumans to know that there is support for them on their worst days too.”
Every step of the 96-kilometre Kokoda Trek, in support of the Emergency Services Foundation, will be walked in honour of those who have taken their lives and to raise awareness for issues surrounding mental health for emergency service workers.
Ti has been raising money for the adventure for the past few months and has so far received $4,500 for the campaign, out of a goal of $6,800.
The kind community at Airlie Beach Bowls Club held a special event to raise money for Kokoda and gave Ti a platform to talk about the importance of mental health and checking in with everyone.
Ti has also received support from Three Little Birds Café in Airlie Beach who are holding a special raffle draw with some incredible prizes that were donated by some generous local businesses, with ticket sales closing Thursday, October 13.
With just 10 days to go, Ti is excited but also starting to get nervous.
“It feels a lot more real now and emotionally it is bringing up a lot for me,” said Ti, who continues their own recovery journey with PTSD.
“I’m a bit nervous and it’s getting a bit daunting for me but I always remember the deeper meaning behind doing this and stay focused on getting there.”
Ti’s biggest supporters are wife Mel and their two daughters who inspire them every step of the way.
Taking the kids on long treks and heading to the gym most days, Ti is preparing in every possible way.
“I’ve also been learning a lot of blister first aid!” Ti said.
“I’m sure that will come in handy too!”
You can still buy raffle tickets online by scanning the QR code or in person at 3 Little Birds Espresso.
If this has brought up anything for you, please reach out to your supports or call Lifeline on 13 11 14
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