Climbing for NSW RFS Bundanoon
Every Step Matters
Over the years, I’ve spent much of my life serving in the military and emergency services. I’ve learned that not every emergency comes with flashing lights or a Triple Zero (000) call. Some of the hardest battles are the ones nobody can see.
Mental health affects every family, every workplace and every community.
This year, I’m proud to be part of the 2026 Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb.
On 12 September, I’ll be part of the MFSC Climb Crew, helping look after and service the breathing apparatus sets used by the firefighters taking on the traditional 28-storey climb.
But before then, I wanted to make my own contribution to the cause as a Virtual Climber.
In 2022, 3,249 Australians died by suicide.
The Virtual Stair Climb challenges us to climb one stair for every one of those lives over the month.
I’ve decided to climb them all in four days.
From 24–28 August, I’ll climb 3,250 stairs — around 813 stairs each day — wearing full structural firefighting personal protective clothing and breathing apparatus.
The traditional Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb is 28 storeys. Each day, I’ll push beyond that traditional climb as I work towards all 3,250 stairs.
The weight on my shoulders is also a reminder of something much bigger: life’s challenges are easier when we help lighten the load someone else may be carrying.
Every stair represents a life lost.
Behind every statistic was a person who mattered. A family left grieving. Friends and workmates wondering what they might have missed. A community forever changed.
Mental health doesn’t discriminate. It affects families, friends, workmates, neighbours, veterans, first responders and people from every part of our community. Some of the hardest battles are fought quietly, by people who may put on a brave face because they don’t want to worry or let down those around them.
If this challenge encourages even one person to ask for help, check in on a mate, or start an important conversation, then every step will have been worthwhile.
If you’re able, I’d be incredibly grateful for your support. Every donation, no matter the amount, helps support organisations providing mental health services, crisis support and hope to Australians when they need it most.
And if you can’t donate, please consider sharing this page. Starting a conversation can matter too.
3,250 stairs. One for every life lost.
Every Step Matters.
One Stair. One Life. One Mission.
Thank you for helping me make every step count.
So far, I've raised $1,315 of my $3,250 fundraising goal.
I've completed 4,158 steps towards our overall goal of 1,000,000 steps.
Recent donations from Benjamin’s friends
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$50Elizabeth Fenwick6 days ago ● Awesome cause, good on you and good luck!
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$50Karin Johnston11 days ago ● Wow what a great cause! You will fly up these stairs! All the best!
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$25Elliot23 days ago ● Great cause! The stairs don’t know what’s coming!! 🚒