On Monday, July 12 over 800 staff members, in 85 teams across five campuses commenced CQU’s 10 000 Steps Challenge for workplaces.

Staff members were challenged to use pedometers and accumulate 5 million steps per team (the equivalent of walking across Australia) over an 8-12 week period.

The first two teams from Mackay Campus have completed their journey across Australia, and by all accounts it was not too difficult.

The Energetic Education Exercisers completed their journey in just seven weeks, followed by the Willing Walkers who completed their journey this week, week nine of the challenge.

According to Head of Campus, Phillip Clift, the 10,000 step challenge has had some pleasing and surprising results.

“Participating staff members have reported increased awareness of their levels of physical activity and increased feelings of well-being, but one of the intangible benefits is the esprit de corps it has developed among our staff,” said Professor Clift.

Staff members from all faculties have come together to achieve team goals.

Team Leader of the Willing Walkers, Marilyn Ingham, said: "Our team was made up of staff members from various administrative areas and faculties around the campus and we have had great fun interacting on a regular basis, something we don’t always make time for during the working week.".

CQU challenges other Mackay employers to join the challenge and reap the benefits.

More information about the 10 000 Steps Challenge can be found at www.10000steps.org.au .

Photo (left): Members of the Energetic Education Exercisers Pam Gargett (Team Leader), Bruce Knight, Cecily Knight, Cindy Jo Zahmel, Avril Rose and Nikki France celebrate the completion of their ‘walk across Australia’ in just seven weeks.

Photo (above): Members from the Willing Walkers team Heather Mason, Marilyn Ingham (Team Leader), Lindy Bennett and Jenny Kofoed check their pedometers as they complete their challenge in nine weeks.