Western Queensland Sculpture Trail – Dunn and Dusted!

They say that what happens on tour stays on tour but what if it was that good that you just had to share? 

What began as just an idea to try a trail out west became an incredible adventure in just less than 12 months later with 21 trekkers from Mackay, Brisbane and Townsville. 

“I saw a Sarina lady had a crack at the Lake Dunn Sculpture Trail outside of Aramac and thought this could be fun and a little bit crazy”, says local woman, Kirsty Mawer. 

Knowing that she would need some assistance to pull off such an event she approached Tri-Activ8’s performance coach and director, Nikki Giles.  

“I met Nikki a few years ago at a trail running course and had since attended some of her trail sessions. Getting to know her I found out she had done adventure racing and coordinated events like Zach Mach so she definitely had the know-how to get this off the ground. The question was would she be interested?”, Mawer explains. 

“I messaged her straight away and her response was “Let’s do it!”. 

The original idea was to take a small group out to Aramac with a limited support crew of family and friends to set up camp and arrange food but once the expressions of interest were opened up it grew larger than life. 

“With all of the COVID restrictions, pressure and absolute roller coaster of logistics it was a huge feat but with wonderful support crew and the team from YACHATDAC we did it! Running 200km in 5 days was a pipe dream, but doing it with 20 other like-minded friends blew my mind!”, says Nikki Giles. 

Created by talented, local artist, Milynda Rogers the 200km trail hosts over 40 artworks which showcases her journey through metal working and sculpture.  

“It was a huge privilege to meet Milynda on the trek where we sat around the campfire to talk about her art. She was humble but so proud of what she has created although she never intended it to be a massive tourist attraction for the area”, explains Mawer. 

“Most people drive the trail but we got to experience it in a totally different way – walking, running and riding those kilometres you got to appreciate the amazing artworks, the changing landscapes, the fact that we were challenging ourselves and of course camp at the end of the day”, says Mawer. 

Camp logistics were arranged by local Aboriginal Corporation, YACHATDAC who fed and housed the 21 adventurers each day.  “Hot showers, toilets and comfy stretcher beds were just part of it – that was all a bonus”, explains Mawer.  

“Having the Managing Director, Suzanne, her husband Graham and their team as part of this journey was next level. The guesting experience on country and the exposure to YACHATDAC’s vision was extraordinary and will stay with us. It was inspiring to see their home, the rich culture and the interest from the next generation in becoming involved to preserve their legacy. 

“We look forward to getting YACHATDAC involved next year and making this an annual adventure. The interest from other people since we did the trek has been huge! Those who thought it was crazy are now seeing that it is indeed possible and will perhaps sign up for next year to give it a go”, says Giles. 

For more information about the 2022 Lake Dunn Sculpture Trail Adventure Trek, visit www.tri-activ8.com.au or follow on Facebook or Instagram @tri-activ8