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October 20, 2026

Taking a hike for mental health 

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Danni Carr, Zenith Virago and Mandy Nolan are taking a long walk for mental health. Photo Tree Faerie.

‘A comedian, a deathwalker and a podcaster walked into the bush…’ 

It sounds like the start of a good joke, and although there are guaranteed to be a lot of laughs, Mandy Nolan, Zenith Virago and Danni Carr are serious about raising funds to support youth mental health work.

The three women are about to ‘Take a Hike for Human Nature’, a dedicated, innovative, nature-based mental health support program for young people. 

Outdoor therapy

It focuses on youth empowerment through outdoor therapy and supports vulnerable youth across the Far North Coast of NSW. 

Human Nature, whose ambassador is Mandy Nolan, has partnered with Inspired Adventures to take a small group of hikers on a walking adventure through the Scenic Rim in Queensland. 

The hike is a three-day trek and will summit Mt Cordeaux and Mt Mitchell. 

The trio will walk through ancient rainforests and waterfalls in the World Heritage Lamington National Park.

Nolan says she is passionate about the very important work Human Nature does. 

Powerful work funded by philanthropy

‘This is another organisation that does innovative and powerful work funded by philanthropy. I have known some of the young people who have accessed this non-clinical nature-based program. It has changed people’s lives. If I can do a three-day walk to raise money and awareness, then I am in. I asked some friends to join me.’

Podcaster and founder of the How I Quit Alcohol program, Danni Carr, said that Mandy Nolan just asked her to go for a walk. ‘I said sure! Then she told me what it was all about. I thought it sounded like a great thing to raise money for – it’s such a great organisation and something I want to support.’

Deathwalker, Zenith Virago, says she has known Human Nature founder Andy Hamilton and his work for many years. ‘I’m happy to do the leg work with Mandy and Danni in the hope that people will support us, as we support such a great organisation, and I’m looking forward to appreciating the beauty of nature and where we live.’

Nolan says she is thrilled that Danni and Zenith jumped in. ‘I don’t have the right shoes. Or sensible shorts. And I really need better deodorant! ‘

The trek runs from November 15 to 17 – you can find out more at tinyurl.com/DanniZenithMandy.



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