Sadly, many Australian children have a big hike ahead of them.
Social and economic disadvantage means they need to climb mountains others don’t see, and descend into valleys deeper than most can imagine.
At Big Hike, we want to change that.
We help disadvantaged Australian children realise their potential by providing educational scholarships. Every dollar we raise is given to children in the form of scholarships. Not one cent is consumed by administration costs.
Our story
Inspired by a hike across a continent
Big Hike was founded in 2025, drawing inspiration from Dr Matthew Hutchinson’s mammoth solo hike from Mexico to Canada on the Pacific Crest Trail. Carrying everything he needed to survive on his back, he trudged 4,265 km across deserts, mountains, swollen rivers and glaciers. He reached the Canadian border 6 months later, after burning through 7 pairs of shoes and shedding 20 kg in body weight.
4,265 km
Mexico to Canada
6 months
On the trail
7 pairs
Of shoes worn out
20 kg
Body weight shed
Just like the children he was hiking for, Matt endured significant childhood challenges.
Receiving an educational scholarship changed his life, allowing him to pursue his dream of becoming a surgeon. He wants Big Hike to help other disadvantaged children have the same opportunities he did.
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