Mayor's 24-Hour Challenge for Mental Health
Held in April 2026, this inaugural event raised much-needed support for youth and mental health in our community.
The inaugural 24-Hour Challenge for Mental Health was held in April 2026 to raise funds and awareness to support those dealing with this growing issue.
The Mayor’s Challenge united people from around the world and encouraged participation in a round-the-clock event held at The Crest Athletics Track, Bass Hill.
Individuals, businesses, schools and community groups came together, completing more than 18,000 laps combined over 24 hours raising more than $100,000 to support youth through Charlotte’s Wish scholarships.
Participants and supporters of the event included Federal and State MPs, media personalities, sporting greats, our first responders and Emergency Services personnel and community organisations.
Charlotte O’Brien, a 12‑year‑old who tragically died by suicide in September 2024 after experiencing ongoing bullying, had one powerful wish: “everybody matters, every day”.
Her parents, Mat Howard and Kelly O'Brien, are channelling their heartbreak into action by honouring Charlotte’s wish to raise awareness about bullying and advocate for youth mental health.
They've partnered with Step into Action Foundation to launch Charlotte's Wish Scholarships – providing youth with early wellbeing support to help them build resilience and skills to overcome challenges and thrive.
Every dollar raised from the Mayor's 24-hour Challenge event will go directly to fund Charlotte's Wish Scholarships.
2026 event partners